Maurizio Sarri hopes to see ‘maturity’ from Lazio in the Europa League trip to Midtjylland and explains why Ivan Provedel has become first choice in goal.
It kicks off on Thursday at 17.45 UK time (16.45 GMT) in Denmark.
The Biancocelesti started their Europa League group phase with a 4-2 win over Feyenoord, while Midtjylland were beaten 1-0 by Sturm Graz.
“Midtjylland are a good team, they’ve been in Europe for years and last season drew away to Atalanta, then lost the play-offs to Benfica, so they are accustomed to this level,” said Sarri in his press conference.
“Their strikers are dangerous, their wingers quick. Humility is absolutely necessary and we need the character to take control of the match.
“It’s a small stadium, but when packed with fans, it feels like a much bigger arena.”
The Lazio coach is not fond of squad rotation, but warns with this schedule it is “purely about survival.”
Luis Maximiano was one of the biggest investments of the summer, but after his red card six minutes into the Serie A debut, the goalkeeper has been shelved in favour of Ivan Provedel.
“His performances have been solid so far and I already changed several defenders, so wanted to have some sense of consistency.”
Lazio struggled badly last season with Serie A performances after their Europa League games, so have they changed their ways?
“You can only tell psychological maturity over a long period of time. I have good sensations, you can see more concentration in training.”