Vladimir Petkovic has told Lazio “the psychological approach is crucial” to tomorrow’s Europa League play-off with FK Mura.
Vladimir Petkovic has told Lazio “the psychological approach is crucial” to tomorrow’s Europa League play-off with FK Mura.
The Biancocelesti won the first leg 2-0 in Slovenia last week, but their Coach does not want to run any risks.
“I expect character from the team. The psychological approach will be crucial, as we must win and do so convincingly,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We are the favourites tomorrow, but we have to prove on the field that we deserve that title. Inter were favourites in the last round, but they ran into huge problems with Hajduk Split.
“This is not the first time that Lazio have played in the Europa League, so we have the experience to know that playing in an important match means focusing on the mental attitude, because physically we are ready.
“Miroslav Klose will rest until tomorrow, then I’ll decide on the line-up in the morning. I will be rotating the squad to a certain degree.”
Petkovic was under huge pressure during the summer with a series of poor friendly results, but in official games he has won his Europa League and Serie A debuts.
“Pre-season was not a disaster. It had some positives. The only negative aspect was the defeats, which arrived even after we dominated.”
This week Lazio signed defender Michael Ciani from Bordeaux.
“He could help this team to make the step up in terms of quality and finally I’ll have alternatives in that role.”