Keita Balde Diao expects Lazio to face “a very tough game” against Sparta Prague tomorrow.
The Biancocelesti flew to the Czech Republic today ahead of tomorrow’s Europa League Last 16 first leg, and the forward – who will represent Senegal after being called-up today – anticipates a big test.
“I’m at the disposal of the Coach and the team, I’ll play up-front or on the wing,” Keita shrugged in the pre-match Press conference.
Keita Balde Diao expects Lazio to face “a very tough game” against Sparta Prague tomorrow.
The Biancocelesti flew to the Czech Republic today ahead of tomorrow’s Europa League Last 16 first leg, and the forward – who will represent Senegal after being called-up today – anticipates a big test.
“I’m at the disposal of the Coach and the team, I’ll play up-front or on the wing,” Keita shrugged in the pre-match Press conference.
“Tomorrow night I expect a very tough game, it’ll be aggressive and we have to concentrate on ourselves.
“I’m convinced and confident in my teammates, if we play like we did in the second half with Torino or like we did against Bologna we can win.
“They’re all strong teams [in the competition], it doesn’t make much difference [who we play]. We have to play calmly, it won’t be the end of the world whether we win or lose.
“We have to play without thinking about the return leg.”
Keita missed both legs of the Last 32 tie against Galatasaray, having received a four-match ban for his red card against Rosenborg.
“I was very bad on the suspension, I realise the mistake I made. It happens, and you learn from these things, I can’t help the team from the stands.
“Tomorrow I have to help whether I start or come off the bench. The Europa League is a competition I’m playing for the second year, we’re a team which can go the distance.
“We’re the only Italian team left, we’re pleased and proud and we can advance again. We’ll give our all.
“Senegal? I’m happy to have been called-up, it was a choice made by me and my family but right now I’m focused on the game tomorrow.”