Stefano Pioli said much of his experimental Lazio line-up against Atalanta was “forced upon me” by injuries.

Miroslav Klose bagged a brace in the 2-0 victory, but the Orobici arguably had the better of the game overall.

“I think there are many positives from this evening, on top of the result which of course is important,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

Stefano Pioli said much of his experimental Lazio line-up against Atalanta was “forced upon me” by injuries.

Miroslav Klose bagged a brace in the 2-0 victory, but the Orobici arguably had the better of the game overall.

“I think there are many positives from this evening, on top of the result which of course is important,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“Some of my choices were forced upon me, as we’ve got so many players out injured and there are others who always put the effort in throughout the season and deserved this chance.

“It was a timorous start and we should’ve raised the tempo more, but we improved after the break and deserved the victory.

“European qualification from Serie A won’t depend only on us, but we have to keep winning and try to get in the best position. I think it’s actually better that we have a very tough final fixture list, as knowing my players it’ll get the best out of them.”

The squad rotation was also to help prepare for Thursday’s Europa League Round of 16, after a 1-1 first leg result away to Sparta Prague.

“I have doubts because I don’t know who will be fully fit. We needed to win this game, we did it, and the Europa League is another tournament.

“We have a small advantage from the first leg and will aim to make the most of it. We have the chance to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and want to go all the way.

“I have been telling my players for a while now that there’s no point looking back over what we could’ve done or said. We still have a season to complete and objectives to aim for.

“This is going to be a very important appointment and I hope the fans will come in large numbers to the Stadio Olimpico. Admittedly we didn’t repeat last term, but it’s time to put controversy aside and work together.”

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