Davide Ballardini believes former side Lazio” data-scaytid=”3″>Lazio could be one of the surprises of the season and even finish in the Champions League places.

Speaking to Rome's Radio IES 99.8, the former Aquile boss mused that after Roma and Juventus, who he sees as titles favourites, the Biancocelesti were capable of matching the rest of Serie A.

Davide Ballardini believes former side Lazio could be one of the surprises of the season and even finish in the Champions League places.

Speaking to Rome's Radio IES 99.8, the former Aquile boss mused that after Roma and Juventus, who he sees as titles favourites, the Biancocelesti were capable of matching the rest of Serie A.

“Lazio can fight for the third place,” said the 50-year-old, who failed to save Bologna from relegation last season.

“Roma and Juventus are in another league, but behind them everyone else is in contention and Lazio lacks nothing to play for the last available place for the Champions League.”

Ballardini suggested that 19-year-old sensation Keita Balde Diao can be influential, in a similar way to how Mauro Zarate made a huge impact during his season managing Lazio in 2009-10.

He went on to say, however, that he hopes the young Spaniard doesn't have the same problems.

“Zarate was a strange situation. He had extraordinary qualities and is also a great guy but he doesn't have the right mentality.

“Lazio tried in every way to keep him but he did nothing to help. And he had people around him who gave bad advice.

“There was also another issue,” continued Ballardini. “His contract. He had a wonderful year, and succeeded in only six months to get an important new deal.

“This created resentment because there were players in the squad who'd given so much to Lazio in previous seasons without receiving any similar reward.

“That exacerbated the problems he had with his teammates, on top of his attitude.

“People make all the difference. Keita will have to be good at surrounding himself with those who will help him to mature.

“There are players who have extraordinary talent, but if behind the technical

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