Federico Fernandez says Napoli have reset their focus in an attempt to put last weekend’s defeat to Juventus” data-scaytid=”1″>Juventus behind them in preparation for facing Lazio” data-scaytid=”2″>Lazio.
Federico Fernandez says Napoli have reset their focus in an attempt to put last weekend’s defeat to Juventus behind them in preparation for facing Lazio.
The Vesuviani fell 3-0 in Turin last weekend to miss the opportunity to close the gap on Edy Reja’s Aquile.
Facing the capital club this weekend with the chance to draw level on points with them with a win, defender Fernandez has reflected on how the players have approached the task.
“We have started again, we are training with great intensity. We want to get the three points and must play to the maximum of our potential. We must forget the defeat against Juventus, after the second goal we were disjointed.
“I saw Chelsea’s game in the Champions League this week [a second leg quarter-final win over Benfica].
“Had we stayed in then we could have won through to the semi-final, we’re sorry for the elimination, but now we are hoping to come back to take third place.
Fernandez arrived in Naples last summer for a reported €3m fee from Argentine side Estudiantes and has so far only had a bit-part role to play with the Italians.
“I’m completing my process of settling in at Napoli – I arrived in a team full of great players. Slowly I have been able to enter the team’s workings. I’m always available, trying to do what the Coach asks of me in training.
“My role? At Estudiantes I played as the centre-right in a three-man defence, from the centre it is a little different, but I am comfortable in both positions.”
Walter Mazzarri may call on Fernandez from the start against Lazio this weekend, amid an injury-and-suspension-based crisis.
“For Lazio? I am available, there are many who are injured. Mazzarri has the difficulty of making the choices, I hope to be included. One thing is certain – we are after third place and the Coppa Italia.”