Rafa Benitez praised Lorenzo Insigne’s work-rate after Napoli beat Torino 2-1, but was “perplexed” by criticism.
Rafa Benitez praised Lorenzo Insigne’s work-rate after Napoli beat Torino 2-1, but was “perplexed” by criticism.
“We need to improve when defending, that is for sure, but I saw some good things tonight. Clearly three consecutive victories are a good sign, but we need to analyse what we can do better,” he told Sky Sport Italia.
“It wasn’t easy tonight, as we lost Hamsik and Britos. We said it would take hearts and heads to win, so that proved accurate. Torino’s goalkeeper was Man of the Match.”
Insigne broke his goal drought and also provided the assist for Jose Callejon’s winner.
“The key for me with Insigne is his work-rate. In football you cannot talk about a player who stands still, as they need to help out in defence and also attack. Lorenzo can do that, he just needs to be a little more precise in the finish.”
Benitez was asked if he felt more relaxed now that calls for his dismissal had abated.
“I wasn’t tense recently. I was perplexed by everything that was being said after the season we had last year. We know there is a lot of passion in the city, but there are financially stronger clubs and we have to work extra hard to close that gap.
“Was I offended? No, perplexed. A team that notched up a new record of Serie A points, won 10 away games, scored over 100 goals and finished in third place while winning the Coppa Italia achieved a great deal.
“I realise people expect a great deal, but with football it’s all a question of moments. If even one of our chances from previous games had gone in, we would’ve had as many points as last season.
“I don’t think this squad is less strong than last year. I believe the new players have to settle in and this squad has not yet expressed its full potential.
“For example, I am sure when Gonzalo Higuain does get his goal, it will help his confidence.”
Benitez even got into the headlines when he went to Liverpool for a few days to visit his family and revealed he’ll take some time off again next week.
“Not many people know this, but I am the only Coach who lives within the training ground. I go to see my family for a few days when I can. I’d like to bring them here, but it’s not easy when the kids are studying.”