Lazio kicked 2019 off with a victory, two confirmations and important news. Simone Inzaghi's squad defeated Novara 4-1 to move past the quarterfinals of the Coppa Italia. Inzaghi can smile twice because he found important responses from Luis Alberto and Milinkovic-Savic, who are looking to redeem themselves after a frustrating start. Pedro Neto also appeared in the biancoceleste shirt after two years. Inzaghi spoke to the press after the victory.
"I asked the players to try and concentrate because this appeared to be an easy match, but the players entered the game with the right spirit and we deservedly won. This victory gives us confidence because we're in a good moment and I'm happy about our presentation."
"In the second half the only flaw was not seal the deal of a shutout. I would have liked to not allow a goal, but it's fine the way it is. I'm happy: I received good responses from the starters and the substitutes. Did Badelj ask to leave? Nobody has asked me to be sold, but it's normal that everybody wants to play."
"Do I want someone in the transfer market? I'm always in contact with leadership, they're working for me, especially for a fullback, but it depends on who comes out. If we do something, it'll be to improve ourselves. Lulic on the right? I'm lucky to have Senad who is doing great things, he's used to playing on the left but moving him is something that I have to evaluate. Not to forget that we have Patric, who has always done what's needed. On the left we have Lukaku and Durmisi who were hindered in the first part of the season."
"Novara's penalty? From this year they're always giving those types of penalties. Every time that the ball touches a player's arm they blow the whistle. But things will be changed. The defenders cannot challenge attackers with their arms behind their backs. Pedro Neto? He's a young guy that is growing well, he's been disadvantaged because in front of him there are many strong players."
