Ivan Provedel gave his thoughts on Lazio’s strong defensive record this season, the Champions League qualification and their growth under Maurizio Sarri.
The Biancocelesti have secured qualification to Europe’s premier club competition following the 10-point penalty handed to Juventus by the FIGC court on 22nd May, allowing them to enjoy their final games of the 2022-23 season.
Provedel has been one of the most important figures in the Lazio squad this season, emerging as the clear number one in the Italian capital, keeping 20 clean sheets across 36 Serie A appearances.
Speaking at the ‘Anti-Cypo Onlus’ charity event (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Provedel first spoke about Lazio’s qualification to the Champions League.
Very important season, now we’re thinking about improving where we can. The team is getting an important result now, so it’s important for me too, we hope to end it in the best possible way.
The 29-year-old Italian shot stopper was then asked about the fact that he’s only one clean sheet away from matching the all-time club record in a single season, set by Silvano Martina in Serie B in the 1987-88 season.
I don’t think about it, I prefer to score goals and win rather than go 0-0. It’s something that remains written, the best way to end the season is to try to win on Sunday and then against Empoli.
Defence is done by the whole team, like when you score goals, it depends on the team, this is proof that we are all working in the right direction but I think there is still ample room for improvement.
He touched on the team’s growth under coach Sarri.
We do not set ourselves limits, we are young, and it would not be right to do so. We aim high and we only want to improve, the results in the short and long term are the consequence of the work done with the coach.
We’re here for a good cause and we’re pleased, it’s not a commitment, I have a great relationship with our coach and goalkeeper coach, and I’m only pleased.
Finally, Provedel was asked if he was keen to take revenge against his former club Empoli in the final game of the season.
I don’t think about it, everyone has their own path, in Italy we look a lot at age. I started late, I had an injury that kept me out for a long time, I’m proud of my history and everything I’ve been through is part of it. I am happy and I only think about giving my best on the pitch.
Very humble, top lad👏