Hernanes: Time for Lazio to concentrate on Juventus

Jan 20, 2013 10:20:00 AM

The Brazilian midfielder believes the Biancocelesti need to take whatever positives they can from their draw with Palermo before facing the league leaders in the Coppa Italia

Hernanes has called on his Lazio team-mates not to dwell on their disappointing 2-2 draw with Palermo and focus on their forthcoming games, starting with Juventus.

Vladimir Petkovic's side took an early lead through Sergio Floccari but, after goals from Alevaro Rios and Paulo Dybala, they only managed to rescue a point against the Sicilians with a late penalty from Hernanes.

However, after the game, the 27-year-old Brazilian stressed that there were some positive elements that his side could build on in future.

"At the end of the day it's a point gained," the former Sao Paulo man was quoted by La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"It didn't go well, but we showed character. Now we need to think of the upcoming games, starting with Juventus."

This optimism was shared by others in the squad, including Giuseppe Biava, who played for the Rosanero earlier in his career and praised the spirit of the opposition.

"A normal team would be down and out at 2-1," the 35-year-old defender claimed. "But we were good."

"In the first half Palermo were a little fearful, perhaps due to their position, but in the second half they came out fighting.

"[Coach Gian Piero] Gasperini is one of the best I've ever played under. If the players follow him, they can do well."

Lazio are currently second in Serie A with 43 points, five behind leaders Juventus, while strugglers Palermo are down in 19th with 16 points.