Lazio coach Stefano Pioli is eagerly anticipating his team’s upcoming clash with AC Milan.
The former defender took over at the capital club this July following Edy Reja’s resignation and is intent on the Biancocelesti starting off their domestic campaign on the right foot.
“I’m very focused and prepared for the game, and I expect to see a team that will demonstrate their qualities on the pitch,” he stated to reporters ahead of the match.
“Like us, Milan are not playing in Europe this season and will be looking to fight for a place. One advantage of not having any continental competitions is being able to focus on more details and we have to take advantage of this to the fullest.”
Pioli was also asked on his thoughts on his upcoming opponents, who endured a torrid time last season, as well as the fitness of veteran striker Miroslav Klose.
“Milan are not a team to be underestimated and we respect them. [As for] Klose, he’s ready, just like his other teammates, but we’ll have to see whether he can feature for the full 90 minutes.
Finally, he also reflected on the league table and the team’s dealings in the transfer market.
“[Regarding the] market, I’m solely focused on the game ahead. [Right now] I feel that the squad I have is very competitive.
“[With the] league table, I think that there are seven teams that can fight it out. Juventus and Roma of course, are a step ahead, but there are teams like Torino and Parma who also did well last season.”
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