Maurizio Sarri admits Matias Vecino is ‘solving problems’ for Lazio after the winner in a 3-2 thriller with Atalanta, while Luis Alberto is a ‘leader.’
The Aquile were forced to do without their star striker Ciro Immobile, but did not seem to miss him, as Taty Castellanos got his debut goal after a Luis Alberto corner ricocheted in off Charles De Ketelaere.
Atalanta fought back from 2-0 down to 2-2 with Ederson and Sead Kolasinac headers, but Matias Vecino popped up with a well-taken volley to seal the 3-2 thriller.
“Vecino is scoring crucial goals and solving problems this season. He played at a high level in the Champions League midweek and I thought it best to only give him some of the game today, but he made a big impact. All those who came off the bench showed consistency today,” Sarri told DAZN.
“The first 25 minutes were excellent, it’s a pity because we could’ve been leading by far more at the half-hour mark. The primary objective today felt like survival, as it was so hot that it was impossible to maintain that tempo.
“The substitutions gave us fresh vigour and we made the most of that to take the result home.”
Luis Alberto was substituted and sat on the bench with ice strapped to his ankle, but then sat with Sarri and assistant manager Giovanni Martusciello to bark orders, almost like an extra member of staff.
“He is a leader for the whole team. He also played with a slight adductor issue, I saw him struggling in the second half and after a long run of games, that was inevitable. Zaccagni also had a problem with his ankle and we hope he is ok.”
Taty Castellanos got his first goal for Lazio, filling in for the injured Immobile.
“He had a good game, he is improving and works hard, has good temperament. In my view, he can do much better.”
Lazio’s main strength last season was their defence, but this term they have kept only one clean sheet.
“We struggled on crosses and set plays, although I feel we are allowing fewer chances compared to the opening games and hopefully that means we are on our way towards some solidity.”
Sarri was sent off for dissent in the final minutes, but rather than completely leave the turf, he hovered behind the stairs to keep an eye on the match, while Luis Alberto and Guendouzi stood on the touchline biting their nails.
“In terms of humanity, this is a great group. When it comes to reactions of mentality, we can certainly improve.”