Lazio director Igli Tare admits the Europa League group has been tougher than expected, but still feels a sense of ‘injustice’ from both Feyenoord and the Sergej Milinkovic-Savic Serie A ban.
It kicks off at 17.45 GMT at the De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam.
Some squad rotation has been necessary due to the upcoming Derby della Capitale, so Pedro and Luis Alberto are benched.
“Pedro has given his best coming off the bench, so in a game like this his presence is fundamental for experience and unpredictability in front of goal,” Tare told Sky Sport Italia.
“Finishing top of the group is very valuable for the draw. We thought it might be easier in this group, but that served as a lesson that every opponent is competitive at this level. We start this match top of the group and want to close it in the same position.”
Maurizio Sarri was furious after the Eredivisie postponed Feyenoord and Ajax matches to help them better prepare for these Europa League and Champions League clashes, giving them a whole week to get ready.
“It is inexplicable and completely unfair,” agreed Tare. “We are accustomed to playing every three days and have what it takes to win anyway, but what they did still remains unjust.”
Lazio have the Derby della Capitale against Roma coming up on Sunday, but Milinkovic-Savic will not be participating, as he is suspended following a controversial yellow card.
“It made me extremely angry. We tried to deal with it in the best possible way by leaving him initially on the bench against Salernitana, but as Sarri said, it is the first time I have seen a player booked while in possession of the ball.
“After the game, the referee even suggested a possible red card. It would’ve been right to see Sergej in the derby, he did not deserve that booking.”