Lazio’s fortunes have taken a positive turn ahead of their upcoming Serie A fixture against Lecce. Despite a disastrous 6-0 defeat to Inter Milan on Monday, which saw Samuel Gigot and Mario Gila forced off with injuries, both centre-backs have made swift recoveries and are in contention to feature this weekend.
The Biancocelesti’s attacking options have also received a significant boost, with top scorer Taty Castellanos available again after serving a suspension. The Argentine striker’s importance to the team cannot be overstated, with Lazio’s win percentage jumping from 20% to 55% when he’s on the pitch. Castellanos has seamlessly filled the void left by Ciro Immobile’s departure last summer, becoming an integral part of Marco Baroni’s system.
However, Lazio still face some injury concerns. While Boulaye Dia is expected to overcome an ankle issue, both Alessio Romagnoli and Matias Vecino remain doubtful with knee and muscular problems respectively.
Lecce, for their part, will be relying heavily on their prolific striker Nikola Krstovic. The Montenegro international has been a constant threat, attempting a league-high 63 shots in Serie A this season.
The hosts are not without their own injury woes. Defensive duo Kialonda Gaspar and Antonino Gallo are still unavailable, as is Lameck Banda. However, there’s positive news regarding Balthazar Pierret, who has resumed full training and could make the matchday squad.
In Gallo’s absence, the highly-rated Patrick Dorgu is expected to deputize at left-back. The versatile wide man’s performance will be closely watched, as he continues to attract interest from several top European clubs.
Lecce (4-3-3): Falcone; Guilbert, Baschirotto, Jean, Dorgu; Coulibaly, Berisha, Rafia; Pierotti, Krstovic, Morente
Lazio (4-2-3-1):Provedel; Lazzari, Patric, Gila, Tavares; Guendouzi, Rovella; Isaksen, Dia, Zaccagni; Castellanos
