Former Lazio defender Pino Wilson believes that the Aquilotti still have a chance at securing a Europa League spot this season despite their recent decrease in form.
The Biancocelesti have only earned three points in their last four Serie A matches, leaving them eight points behind third place Napoli in sixth place on the league table, and the 69-year-old admits that a top three finish is unlikely at the moment, though he insists that the capital city club have what it takes to compete with the likes of Fiorentina and Sampdoria for a place in the top five.
Wilson spoke to TuttoMercatoWeb.com on Monday about Lazio’s 1-0 loss to Genoa on Sunday and their bad luck as of late, while also commenting on the club’s situation in attack after the loss of Filip Djordjevic to injury.
“There’s no doubt that this is a complicated time for Lazio,” said the ex-centre back, who played for Lazio from 1969-79.
“They were disappointing in their recent loss to Cesena from all points of view, while yesterday against Genoa they suffered from a red card and a penalty.
“As for the rest of their performance against the Grifone, they didn’t look too bad. Now the team will have to worry about Udinese, a team that was even able to hold Juventus to a goalless draw.
“The race for third place is now much more complicated, as the gap between Lazio and Napoli will be difficult to fill. The goal to reach the Europa League, however, remains within reach, the quality is there.
“Lazio’s biggest rival right now is Fiorentina, without a doubt. The Viola plays really well, so Vincenzo Montella and his side seem like the biggest competition to overcome in the standings.
“The lack of a new striker in January after Djordjevic’s injury? Miroslav Klose can be the decisive champion to help secure the fate of Lazio, it’s clear that he’s able to do well even at his age.
“Brayan Perea, who has been called back from his loan at Perugia, cannot be seen as a credible alternative. The gap in experience exists and it’s clear.”
