Simone Inzaghi appreciated Lazio’s focus against Novara in the Coppa Italia, but had more complaints about VAR and rules on handball.
The Biancocelesti comfortably swept Serie C outfit Novara aside 4-1 to set up a quarter-final meeting with either Inter or Benevento.
Simone Inzaghi appreciated Lazio’s focus against Novara in the Coppa Italia, but had more complaints about VAR and rules on handball.
The Biancocelesti comfortably swept Serie C outfit Novara aside 4-1 to set up a quarter-final meeting with either Inter or Benevento.
“I had asked the lads for a show of concentration, as these are games that can appear easy, but are anything but. They started strong, took away Novara’s initial confidence and put the game on track,” the Coach told Rai Sport.
“Now we go into the quarter-finals, are in good shape, playing good football lately and are confident going forward.
“Our only error in the second half was not converting more of our chances. I would’ve liked to keep a clean sheet, unfortunately it was another penalty we gave away.”
VAR was used twice this afternoon for handling in the box, which has become a bugbear for Inzaghi.
“This season they seem to be giving a lot of penalties and we need something to change. A player needs to keep his balance and we cannot ask them to spend their entire time with their hands clasped behind their backs. It’s not even the fault of the referees, these are just how they’ve been told to interpret the rules and we need a change of general approach.
“It’s a problem, because these penalties are all being given and they make a big difference to results.”
Lazio director Igli Tare warned the January window will mainly be used to “whittle down the squad” rather than bring in reinforcements and Inzaghi shared that view.
“Nobody has requested a transfer. Obviously, everyone wants to play and it disappoints me to send some into the stands, even more than the bench. There are a few too many players in the group, we hope to place some on loan, but I am a Coach and have to make choices.
“There are continual discussions with the club over transfer strategy and what we need. I could do with a wide player, but it also depends on who is leaving. If we do make any changes, it’ll be to improve the team.”