Chievo vs Lazio preview - Postiga set for Lazio bow
Posted Saturday, February 01, 2014 by PA
Helder Postiga has joined Lazio ahead of Sunday's game at Chievo to remove some of the sting felt by Biancoceleste fans after Hernanes' departure to Inter Milan.
Brazilian midfielder Hernanes joined Inter before the closure of the January transfer window on Friday after three-and-a-half years with the Roman outfit.
"I have received more than 2000 messages," Hernanes said. "I knew that Lazio fans liked me but I didn't think they care for me so much.
"I can't describe what I feel right now.
"I want to thank the fans for their support throughout the years.
"Lazio tried at all costs to keep me but this is my decision.
"I want to improve from a professional standpoint and I believe this is the right step for my career."
Postiga, meanwhile, moved to Lazio on Friday on loan until the end of the season from Valencia.
The Portuguese striker has plenty of motivation to do well with the Romans as Lazio have an option to make his move permanent in the summer.
"I will give my best with this jersey in order to arrive to the top of my game to the World Cup," Postiga said.
Postiga joins a team that is 10th in Serie A after last weekend's 1-1 draw against Juventus.
The Biancoceleste go into the encounter in Verona on the back of Wednesday's 1-0 defeat at Napoli that ended their hopes of defending the Coppa Italia.
Lazio midfielder Antonio Candreva and striker Miroslav Klose will return to the starting line-up having rested in midweek.
Rivals Chievo are desperate to end a six-game winless run.
The men from Verona held Napoli to a 1-1 draw last weekend to climb to 16th place, just one point clear of the drop zone.
Chievo have not won since December 8 and have collected just three points since.
"We are aware of our situation," Chievo coach Eugenio Corini said. "We are fighting to avoid the drop this season.
"We know each game is going to be a battle and we must be ready."
Lazio will be bolstered by the return of midfielder pair Ogenyi Onazi and Senad Lulic from suspension.
Photos
More»
Meet Eva Murati, the glamorous UCL presenter
Friday April 26 2024
[PICTURE SPECIAL] Brighton 0 - 4 Manchester City
Friday April 26 2024
Meet Jude Bellingham's stunning girlfriend Laura
Thursday April 25 2024
Your Say