TORINO. First place in the standings and the Grande Torino stadium make the menu even richer and more interesting for a Toro who will challenge Lazio tomorrow at lunchtime. A great challenge to continue dreaming in the championship and above all the right opportunity to cancel the painful elimination in the Italian Cup against Empoli. “It will be the right opportunity to demonstrate that we have learned from our mistakes – says Paolo Vanoli on the eve – and we must be good at transforming disappointment into positive energy. These matches give the opportunity to see where we can improve and I am convinced that we will take a step forward.”
With Lazio it will be a test of maturity for this Toro capable of staying at the top of Serie A after 47 years of waiting. “I told the players to be proud of what they did – comments Vanoli -, but the journey is long, we know there will be difficulties and we want to face them. I don’t look at the ranking, I show it to my fans. We are humble and know we have a lot to work on: now there is a tough match and let’s move on from improvements. However, I’m happy when I hear my fans happy, but let’s look ahead and the championship doesn’t end now.”
Toro finds Vojvoda and especially Vlasic for tomorrow’s match: the former is a candidate for a starting place after the muscle injury suffered against Lecce two weeks ago, while the latter is back in the squad and can play for the Granata after almost six months of absence. “He has important qualities for our midfield – explains Vanoli – and he could have also come in the cup, but I’m looking ahead: he did one last job, even if he was a bit angry. Now he must be ready to do everything: I really like him as an attacking midfielder, he plays between the lines and has great technique. He needs to learn positioning a bit, with him we can play 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1.”
However, it will still take time and patience to see Schuurs again. “It’s a growth process – underlines Vanoli – and we don’t put pressure on it, also because one may have the urge to get back. He felt the affection of the fans, but it takes a little patience. Giving times means putting a cross on myself: I’m not the one to say how long it will take, but you have to be patient and he’s reacting well. His return would be a wonderful gift, as for Vlasic.”
