Lazio vs Palermo preview - Petkovic calls for Lazio focus

Lazio coach Vladimir Petkovic has told his players their Europa League draw must not serve as a distraction ahead of Sunday's Serie A meeting with Palermo.

The Biancocelesti have been drawn in Group J of the second-tier European competition along with Tottenham, Panathinaikos and Maribor.

Petkovic's side came through a two-legged tie against Mura of Slovenia to reach the group stage, and their league campaign got off to a positive start as they claimed a 1-0 victory at Atalanta on the opening weekend, courtesy of a goal from Hernanes.

They now return to the Stadio Olimpico, and their Bosnian coach, while wanting the club to enjoy their European adventure, has made it clear that league results must remain the priority for the Rome-based club.

"The important thing is to keep our concentration at a high level," he told a press conference.

"We have to play at 100% for every one of our games.

"I'm happy for the fans of Lazio because we will play in major stadiums and it will be fascinating to see how we do, and I hope there will be many fans following us.

"It will be an exciting round, not only for all of the players but also for the support of the fans and the surrounding environment.

"There are no easy opponents but neither are Palermo.

"We cannot get ahead of ourselvves, we have to take it a game at a time, we are now fully focused on Sunday's match against Palermo."

Palermo will be looking to bounce back after their 3-0 reverse against Napoli on the opening weekend.