Edy Reja is willing to bet on Lazio” data-scaytid=”5″>Lazio getting into Europe, but loses Federico Marchetti against Sampdoria” data-scaytid=”7″>Sampdoria.
Edy Reja is willing to bet on Lazio getting into Europe, but loses Federico Marchetti against Sampdoria.
The Stadio Olimpico hosts the early Sunday kick-off at 11.30 UK time (10.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Marchetti is not in the squad because he had a muscular problem and the medics told me pushing would risk a thigh strain. We’ll see from Tuesday, as he mustn’t push too hard,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Lazio are only two points behind Parma, who currently sit in the sixth and final Europa League spot.
“We are behind, but almost all our remaining games are head-to-heads with teams involved in the European chase. There are four home matches we absolutely cannot get wrong.
“We are determined and will take it one game at a time. We must beat Samp, who are a young side with a Coach who has given them a lot of confidence. We have the utmost respect for our opponents.
“Now we’ve got the style of football, the right mentality and a positive approach. Would I bet €1 on Lazio getting into Europe? I’d bet €2! I know we can do well.”
Giuseppe Biava and Tata Gonzalez need late fitness tests, while Lucas Biglia is back in midfield.
“Biglia is someone who cleans up the play. He never just carries the ball, but combines and plays it first time. The team becomes more unpredictable. Without Biglia and Cristian Ledesma in the middle, we really suffer.”
Though Biglia returns, Ledesma continues to sit out his ban.
Lazio squad for Sampdoria: Berisha, Strakosha, Guerrieri; Biava, Konko, Radu, Ciani, Pereirinha, Cavanda, Cana, Serpieri; Onazi, Mauri, Candreva, Lulic, Gonzalez, Biglia, Felipe Anderson; Klose, Perea, Keita, Kakuta, Helder Postiga