Maurizio Sarri insists the Champions League defeat to Feyenoord is not on Lazio’s minds, as they must continue their Serie A form against Fiorentina this evening.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT.
The Biancocelesti are deeply unpredictable, as while they have won their last two Serie A fixtures, they are coming off a heavy 3-1 midweek Champions League defeat to Feyenoord. So how do Lazio get back on track after what happened in Rotterdam?
“This is a competition that has nothing to do with Rotterdam. We are coming off two consecutive victories in Serie A, so are confident there,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.
“Defeat is no shame against Feyenoord, who are a very strong side, but we have regrets and were disappointed that we were unable to express ourselves fully.
“We have to forget that Champions League game and focus on Serie A, replicating the hungry performances we had in the last two or three rounds.”
This is a tricky fixture at the Stadio Olimpico, as Fiorentina know that a victory would put them clear of Napoli and Atalanta in fourth place.
“Fiorentina are a very tough opponent to play against, everyone is aware of that.”
Sarri starts Taty Castellanos upfront this evening and has Ciro Immobile on the bench. How will the coach manage the return to form of their captain?
“I am not a manager, I am a coach. I play who is slightly in better shape and right now that is Castellanos, but clearly we are waiting for Immobile.”