Felipe Anderson: ‘I’m more mature since I left Lazio’
Felipe Anderson admits it will be ‘difficult’ against Bologna without Ciro Immobile, but explains how he has changed since his return to Lazio.
It kicks off on Sunday at 11.30 UK time (10.30 GMT).
Coach Maurizio Sarri left the press conference to one of his star players, especially after losing Ciro Immobile to a thigh injury that also rules the striker out of the Nations League games with Italy.
“It’ll be difficult without him, as Immobile is such an important part of our team. His movement stretches the opposition defence and he almost always finds the net,” said Felipe Anderson.
This is the second stint at the Stadio Olimpico for the Brazilian, who never quite found his form at West Ham United, but Sarri said Anderson has more potential than any player he’s ever worked with.
“I have improved a great deal already with the coach and I am convinced over time the whole team will understand fully what he wants from us.
“I always wanted to work on my consistency, even within a single game, and I’m getting there. The idea is to be constantly focused and ready from the first minute to the 90th.
“I know that I am capable of making the difference, but I used to struggle with the pressure when I was younger. It’s different now, I am on the right path.”
Felipe Anderson jumped at the chance to return to the Biancocelesti this summer.
“Everyone knows I feel at home with Lazio, I’ve always expressed my love for Italy and the city of Rome. I never lost contact with my friends here, even after leaving. I feel that I’ve returned a more mature player.
“At that moment, I wanted a new experience. The Lazio side I left was strong, but the current squad is even better. I see improved mentality and motivation, but we’re only at the start of this project and have much more to prove.”
#LaPrimaSquadraDellaCapitale è in partenza da Roma Termini con @LeFrecce!
Destinazione:
Bologna#TrenoUfficiale
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— S.S.Lazio (@OfficialSSLazio) October 2, 2021