Lazio coach Marco Baroni has named two players who could replace the injured Taty Castellanos in attack against Fiorentina.
The Biancocelesti will lock horns with the Viola on Sunday’s early Serie A kickoff. In his pre-match press conference (via La Lazio Siamo Noi), Baroni confirmed the absence of both Castellanos and Samuel Gigot due to injuries.
Pedro or Noslin to Start Upfront vs Fiorentina
The 60-year-old explained how will fill in for the influential Argentine striker.
Fortunately, Taty didn’t suffer a big injury, but I don’t want to take any risks. Gigot also had a problem yesterday in training, he won’t be available.
We have to find solutions to replace Castellanos, one could start while the other enter in the second half. These are Pedro and Noslin.
What about Castrovilli? For me, Gaetano can work in all midfield roles, even in the double pivot, he can do it very well. But I like Dia as an attacking midfielder and I would like to keep him in this role.
Therefore, It is very likely that one of the two I mentioned could play as a striker. It is a solution we have worked on.
Marco Baroni’s Differences With Maurizio Sarri
Baroni had often reiterated his admiration for former Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri. But while the latter used to avoid rotation, the current Biancocelesti boss finds it necessary.
I disagree with Sarri on rotation. We must use everyone, I carry forward this thought with the team and I have to be consistent. We have to make everyone evolve, so we must let everyone play.
I don’t like to call it rotation, I think of 20 starters who can pass the baton during the game and in important competitions. Then it becomes difficult to maintain the same intesity when playing two or three times per week.
Lazio’s Strong Fanbase
The Lazio coach also urges his players to produce the goods on the road, especially with a loyal fanbase following the team everywhere.
The team must have the same attitude away from home. There is no longer home or away in football.
Playing in front of our fans is extraordinary, they follow us even away, so it is only a mental factor. We must always be ourselves and play our game. I expect significant growth in this regard.
When you play with several offensive players, it is better to keep them close to the opposition’s goal. That’s why we focus on running forward and on the offensive recovery of the ball.
Daniele De Rossi’s Sacking at Roma
Finally, Baroni felt sorry for Daniele De Rossi who has been sacked by Roma earlier this week and replaced by Ivan Juric.
I don’t want to say too much on the subject. When a colleague is sacked, I always feel sorry for him. The Derby (on January 5th) will be fundamental, but we still have a long way to go.
Returned from Rome yesterday having started the trip with a trip to Lo Stadio Olimpico on Monday evening. Only a moderate crowd but absolutely electrifying! Dia demonstated his power with his first goal and although Taty is now proving his worth as the first choice, I’m sure that Baroni can compensate for his absence v Fiorentina. I only hope that he’s looking at whatever the blip is at the back! Conceding early and regularly must be “a thing”.