Lazio coach Stefano Pioli says he wants his side to claim maximum points from their remaining five games this season, starting with a win against Atalanta on Sunday afternoon at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia.
The Biancocelesti recovered from their two game mini blip to record a 4-0 win against Parma at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday and now look to collect as many points as possible with automatic Champions League qualification in their sights.
“We are only thinking about winning the next five games, starting on Sunday,” Pioli told reporters at the pre-game press conference. “We have come a long way this season and don’t intend to give it all up now.
“It’s going to be difficult against Atalanta as they are a very aggressive and compact side. We need to take advantage of any opportunities that come our way.”
Felipe Anderson has been in fantastic from since December and Pioli was asked what condition the Brazilian is currently in.
“He’s fine,” he said. “He has given his all in the past few months and it’s only normal that he has a quiet game but he has been decisive for us and we are delighted with him.
“I don’t know who will play on Sunday but if Felipe is on the bench that is no problem.”
Le Aquile have suffered a few injuries to key players in the past few weeks and Pioli was asked for an update on the current situation regarding the issue.
“The goal is to have Stefan de Vrij and Lucas Biglia back for the game with Inter next weekend,” Pioli started. “We have to be careful in these situations though and access them on a daily basis as we don’t want to put too much workload on them.
“Filip Djordevic has done well since the beginning of the week. He’s continuing to improve and we should see him back soon but he needs to be at 100 per cent before we consider that.”
