Lazio defender Patric has convinced coach Maurizio Sarri and earnt a place in his squad, despite the initial concerns.
As reported by Italian newspaper Il Messaggero (via LazioNews24) earlier today, the Tuscan coach was unsure about the qualities of the 28-year-old Spanish defender upon his arrival in Rome earlier this year, but the work at the pre-season training camp changed things.
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Sarri was impressed with Patric’s hard work, self-sacrifice, and tactical flexibility, all of which helped him rise above veteran Stefan Radu in the defensive pecking order in the Lazio squad.
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The 28-year-old Spanish defender is set to start against Simone Inzaghi’s Inter next weekend due to Francesco Acerbi’s suspension, giving him another opportunity to try and win over the Biancocelesti fans.
Patric has often been criticised by the Lazio faithful in his seven years in Rome, but he has always responded on the pitch, working hard and making himself fully available to the coach.