Patric: ‘Aiming to Make 200 Appearances With Lazio’

Patric underlined why Lazio can’t underestimate Sampdoria and touched on the emotions after progressing in the Europa Conference League.

The Biancocelesti booked their spot in the Round of 16 of Europe’s third tier club competition after edging out a 1-0 aggregate win over CFR Cluj in the play-offs.

In Serie A, Maurizio Sarri’s side are still closely involved in the fight for a top four finish but sit two points behind both Roma and Milan, putting the pressure on them to maintain momentum in the final stages of this season.

Speaking in the Lazio match programme (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Patric first discussed how it felt to progress in the Conference League.

It gives us a lot of confidence for the next league games, starting with the one against Sampdoria. To pass the round in Europe was our goal, we want to do well in every competition.

He commented on his expectations for the clash with Sampdoria.

A very complicated match, full of pitfalls like all matches in Serie A. Maximum attention will be needed for the entire 90 minutes.

Despite Sampdoria’s current position, it won’t be a match with a foregone conclusion.

The Spanish defender spoke about his goal against Sampdoria and why he isn’t often on the scoresheet.

But what unique one! I still consider the goal against Juventus in the 2-2 draw last season mine (Alex Sandro’s own goal, ed.). Let’s say that I don’t have many chances per game, that’s why I score little.

Goals always give you peace of mind, they help you to be less frantic in every area of the pitch. This is especially true for forwards, but also for us defenders.

Finally, Patric discussed his long-term contract with Lazio and his 175 appearances with the club.

My mentality has always taught me that with work everything is possible. I aim to improve myself every day as a person and a footballer, always trying to go beyond my potential.

To reach 175 appearances with this shirt is an honour, by now I feel 100% like a true Lazio player. That’s why I’m not stopping and I’m aiming for 200, I want to collect many more appearances with Lazio.

Tags Biancocelesti Italy Lazio Lazio vs Sampdoria Patric Patric Gil Rome Sampdoria Sampdoria vs Lazio Serie A