Mazzarri not giving up on third

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri has declared that ‘anything can happen’ as they continue their search for a Champions League spot.

Napoli were in pole position to gain entry into Europe’s elite competition until their surprise 2-0 defeat to Bologna last weekend saw Udinese leapfrog them into the third and final place.

Mazzarri’s men need a win against Siena and will be hoping Catania beat Udinese while Lazio fail to pick up three points versus Inter – something the coach believes is within the realms of possibility.

“We must be wary, especially as Siena will come here to play without any particular pressure on them,” he said.

“Our first and only objective must be to win the match, without repeating the errors we made at Bologna, which still sticks in my craw.

“Clearly we must also hope for Catania to beat Udinese and keep an eye on Lazio versus Inter too. I am nonetheless convinced that anything can still happen.”

One man who may not be a Napoli player next season is Ezequiel Lavezzi, with the forward being linked with moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter, yet Mazzarri is confident the Argentine is focused on this weekend’s match.

“He is very motivated and by now we’re accustomed to living with transfer gossip,” Mazzarri said.

“I also hope to have Walter Gargano at my disposal too, even if he hasn’t been well. We also still have to focus on the Coppa Italia final, so will have a week to prepare for that and do our best.”

Napoli will face Serie A champions Juventus in the Coppa Italia final on May 20.