Vladimir Petkovic insists he is “not worried” by Lazio’s two consecutive defeats, “but we must react better to difficulties” against Siena.
The Biancocelesti had their best Serie A start since 1975 by winning the opening three rounds, but have since lost 1-0 to Genoa and 3-0 to Napoli.
Vladimir Petkovic insists he is “not worried” by Lazio’s two consecutive defeats, “but we must react better to difficulties” against Siena.
The Biancocelesti had their best Serie A start since 1975 by winning the opening three rounds, but have since lost 1-0 to Genoa and 3-0 to Napoli.
“The team is calm, albeit with the anger of a side that knows it didn’t show what it can do against Napoli,” said the Coach.
“Now we have to do it all over again, being more clinical and concentrated with more determination to win.”
Miroslav Klose had put them in front at the San Paolo on Wednesday, but confessed to handling the ball.
“After Klose’s disallowed goal, Lazio lost in intensity. We came out fighting for the second half, but then Napoli’s third goal knocked the wind out of our sails and we were unable to react. I did see grit on the field, especially in the opening 20 minutes.
“We have got to think about things with more optimism, as we did create chances in our last three games, albeit without scoring. We need to make more of our opportunities and I didn’t like the fact not enough players got into the box against Napoli.”
Hernanes is carrying an injury and remains at risk for tomorrow’s match with Siena, a side that already beat Lazio in a summer friendly.
“We have to evaluate with Hernanes and see tomorrow morning if he is still in pain. Ederson is still not 100 per cent fit, but I am waiting for him to find form and can see his hunger to earn a starting spot. He can play in attack or in a midfield role.
“We lost with Siena, but cannot compare the two teams to what they were like pre-season. We can say Siena have won their last two games and are in great shape. We’ve got to have patience for 90 minutes, dominate possession and be more clinical.
“I am not worried about my team. I will say we must react better to difficulties and not give in. We can’t look for excuses and that’s an important lesson if we are to become stronger.”