Simone Inzaghi is embracing the idea of Lazio hosting Inter in a head-to-head for the Scudetto. “It’s strange, but nice to be in this position, as we absolutely deserve it.”
The top of the table clash kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“It’s strange, but nice to hear this talked about as a Scudetto showdown,” said Inzaghi in his press conference.
Simone Inzaghi is embracing the idea of Lazio hosting Inter in a head-to-head for the Scudetto. “It’s strange, but nice to be in this position, as we absolutely deserve it.”
The top of the table clash kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“It’s strange, but nice to hear this talked about as a Scudetto showdown,” said Inzaghi in his press conference.
“The table tells us that’s what this is. We are up against a very strong and determined opponent, we’ve prepared well and I will resolve a few doubts during today’s training session.
“It’s an important match, but not a decisive one, as there will be another 14 after this. Winning would give us a big boost, though.
“We have to play with clear heads and there are moments when the right decision has to be made against an organised Inter side with champions on the field. It’s important to cut off the supply to their strikers, Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez.”
Antonio Conte said in his press conference that Inter and Lazio represent two “outsiders.” Does Inzaghi agree?
“Lazio know full well where we started from and that we absolutely deserve to be in this position. We played many games with an excellent level of football and are not obsessed with this position, as we know what our real objective is.
“Juventus are in front of everyone for years now when it comes to planning, investment and ideas. They were the first to create their own stadium. They deserve their success, but this year they’ve found Inter and Lazio ready to cause them a few problems.
“On paper, Juventus, Inter, Roma and Milan should all be ahead of Lazio, as they have far greater revenue, but football isn’t just about that. Predictions can be overturned.
“We want to stay up there as long as possible and see this as a starting point rather than the end of a journey.”
Inzaghi has won silverware before, including in the last few months the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana, so how is he handling the pressure of a Scudetto clash?
“I do feel different, as now I have far more to be worried about! As a young man and a player, you don’t worry as much. We’re preparing well, though, and I think motivation could make the difference tomorrow.
“I am proud of my lads and of course a Scudetto would be wonderful. We are also very proud to have filled the stadium again. If I think back four years to Lazio-Empoli, so much has changed, and the credit is to be shared out equally.”
Inzaghi also hit back at those who criticised Lazio’s victory away to Parma last week, as a potential penalty incident was not viewed again on VAR.
“I think Lazio deserve everything they have this season. We didn’t talk about referees when we went out of the Europa League because of a penalty not given against Celtic, which was clear as day. We could’ve recriminated for hours about the Coppa Italia exit with Napoli and two years ago we all remember in what circumstances we missed out on the Champions League.”