Hernanes: Lazio hungry after Europe loss

Lazio’s Hernanes has warned rivals Roma he and his team-mates will be riled up after losing to Fenerbahce in Europa League in mid-week.

Lazio considered themselves hard done by after their 2-0 defeat in Turkey following a controversial red card and penalty, but the midfielder said they are now looking forward to the derby in Serie A on Monday.

“We are really angry about the way the game went against Fenerbahce,” he told reporters.

“Now we’ve got to focus solely on Roma and maybe use that rage in our favour.

“This is the best opportunity for us to cancel out the Istanbul defeat and get kick-started again so we can then prepare for the second leg.”

Lazio manager Vladimir Petkovic was keen to point out his side had exceeded expectations by sitting above their Italian capital counterparts so late in the term.

Petkovic said his team must stay focused but praised his players for their position in the league and reaching the Europa League quarter-final and Coppa Italia final.

“In July we were not even considered to be candidates for European qualification. Nobody thought we could even compete,” Petkovic said.

“I am very proud of the way our season is going. We are in good shape at the moment and I see the lads calm in training.”

Lazio are sixth in Serie A, three points ahead of Roma.