Beppe Iachini was ‘convinced the lads wouldn’t let me down’ and they delivered with Fiorentina’s 2-0 victory over Lazio, while he reveals what Franck Ribery said on the touchline.

This was a huge game for both sides and the Viola took all three points thanks to a Dusan Vlahovic brace, allowing them to break well clear of the relegation zone.

Beppe Iachini was ‘convinced the lads wouldn’t let me down’ and they delivered with Fiorentina’s 2-0 victory over Lazio, while he reveals what Franck Ribery said on the touchline.

This was a huge game for both sides and the Viola took all three points thanks to a Dusan Vlahovic brace, allowing them to break well clear of the relegation zone.

It was Fiorentina’s first Serie A home victory since February and takes them to 38 points, close to the 40-point mark that tends to secure safety.

“Unfortunately, we had some problems at the start of the season, missing five key players with injury and COVID, then more important players arrived towards the end of the transfer window, so it took a while,” the coach told DAZN.

He was fired and brought back when Cesare Prandelli resigned due to health concerns.

“I then reunited with the team after five months and found they were anxious, tense, needing to be coaxed out of their shells. These results all reward the lads for their efforts and I thank them for following me.

“I returned because I am fond of the club, the fans and the President, plus of course the players. I was convinced they wouldn’t let me down and they really stepped up today.”

The second half was dominated by fouls, free kicks and cards, not allowing either team to build up a head of steam.

“The team took the right approach, we were organised, concentrated for 95 minutes and allowed Lazio practically nothing. We could’ve done better with a few counter-attacks, but it was above all the right spirit and organisation. This is what we need to build on.

“Getting eight points from the last four games was a really important boost and I am very proud of the lads.”

Ribery was acting almost as an assistant manager on the touchline after his substitution, at one point even holding the coach back when he was booked.

“Ribery was constantly making jokes. At that point, he said don’t get sent off, we need you here for the next game! We get along so well.

“Vlahovic and Ribery worked really hard upfront, they timed the runs well and we’re creating so many chances in recent weeks. All the work is starting to pay off.

“Vlahovic is young, humble, eager to work and determined to improve himself. He can go very far if he keeps that attitude.”

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