Napoli coach Rafa Benitez praised his players after their 2-1 win away at Chievo and insisted that the Partenopei are taking each game as it comes now that they are four points behind Roma in second place.
The Spaniard also spoke about Manolo Gabbiadini’s role in the team after the January signing from Sampdoria netted his first goal for the Azzurri.
“The team is doing well,” said Benitez to Sky Sport Italia after the game.
“It wasn’t an easy game, we could have finished it off earlier than we did and we risked not getting the win.
“It’s our third consecutive win and the squad has faith in itself. We’ll see game after game where we can finish.”
The Napoli coach was also asked about what his side need to do to maintain their intensity levels.
“The squad needs to concentrate in every game to win and take the three points. Then afterwards we’ll see where we are, that’s the right attitude.”
Benitez was also asked to explain his tactical choices.
“[Massimiliano] Allegri was clear, in the second half of the season all the teams focus in training more on defensive aspects.”
“It won’t be easy to play at the level of last season, today with Jorginho in the middle we tried to knock the ball around a bit more.
“It wasn’t easy, the pitch wasn’t perfect and they pressed us with us great intensity.
“In the end however, the team did what it had to do, all the players took to the field at the highest possible level.”
Benitez also elaborated on Gabbiadini’s role in the team.
“He can play in any role in attack. He doesn’t leave a reference point for the defenders and that’s always difficult for an opponent.
“With this group of attackers at our disposal we can compete in two or three games a week.”
