The Lazio coach Marco Baroni spoke to Sky Sports ahead of tomorrow’s match against Ajax in the Europa League:
It could be a match point from a direct qualification perspective…
“It would be important, fundamental. This match is important for our ranking but we know that it will be very difficult due to the quality of the opponent and also for the stadium in which we will play. We are aware of the fact that these are the matches we want to play and I am convinced that the team will not fail in its performance.”
The comparison with Farioli, Ajax’s Italian coach?
“It’s nice that Ajax is led by an Italian coach, but we look after ourselves. We are two similar teams, two teams that play and for this reason it will be a good match.”
In your opinion, does this Lazio still have room for growth?
“Yes absolutely, I am convinced of it. We know that difficult moments will come, but the team must continue in the search for this strong identity. We can grow because we have many new young people, who did not know the championship. From this point of view we can improve, but we just have to be ourselves, facing these matches with head, quality and also joy which is what I try to convey to the team.”
Noslin returns home… Will he play from the start?
“Let’s see if he will be a starter. He is a player who will certainly be in the match, but I also have to make some assessments due to Castellanos’ disqualification in the championship. It will be a very tough match from start to finish, there will definitely be a chance for TJ.”
Has Lazio exceeded its initial expectations?
“I don’t like to say that the team has gone further, I believe that the team must think and work to improve itself further, to create this identity that already exists but which can grow further by working on hunger, desire and determination. When I see the team working team, always centered, I also find the tranquility to face these very difficult challenges”.