Simone Inzaghi insists neither Lazio nor Roma are favourites for Saturday’s Derby della Capitale but believes Gianluca Rocchi is the ‘best’ choice of referee.
“The derby is a unique game for everyone and we’ll be facing a great team,” he said at a Press conference.
“Hunger can be the difference. The derby is a game in its own right, and we’ve had little time to prepare for it because we played on Wednesday, but it might not be a bad thing.
Simone Inzaghi insists neither Lazio nor Roma are favourites for Saturday’s Derby della Capitale but believes Gianluca Rocchi is the ‘best’ choice of referee.
“The derby is a unique game for everyone and we’ll be facing a great team,” he said at a Press conference.
“Hunger can be the difference. The derby is a game in its own right, and we’ve had little time to prepare for it because we played on Wednesday, but it might not be a bad thing.
“Roma will play to have a great game, they come into the match on the back of a win against Wednesday and we’re still at the start of the season.
“The team are gaining confidence and in a good run of form, but we mustn’t stop. Winning would be great as it would prolong our recent run of results and we’d gain even more confidence, but it’s too early to take stock or look at the table.
“The four points between us right now don’t mean anything. Tomorrow I’ll have everyone available, barring Lukaku and Radu.
“I believe in this Lazio team, we’ve signed players who let me make changes to the XI. We had a very difficult game in Udine on Wednesday, so everyone is giving me satisfaction with their performances.
“Rocchi has overseen so many derbies. He’s a veteran on the world stage and he’ll help the spectacle come to the fore. He’s the best referee for games like these.
“The management of stress and competition can make the difference, but it’s not possible to name a favourite.
“I respect Di Francesco, he’s a very good Coach who, like me, played for the team he now coaches.
“The last derby ended 0-0 and they came into that one from a difficult spell, so we have to contest this one in the best way.
“The lads know how much this game is worth for the club and our wonderful fans. In this derby, there’s little time to think and accumulate tension.
“We can’t afford to lose any mental energy as it can be decisive. Winning the derby would give us extra boost for the games that follow.
“It’ll be important to read it in the best way possible. Today I’ll assess who played on Wednesday.
“Training will be very intense before the game. Any of the team can be decisive. You don’t win with just individuals, it’s the group who achieves success, and I have a great group.”