Lazio vs Sampdoria preview - Mihajlovic banned for Samp
Posted Saturday, April 05, 2014 by PA
Sampdoria coach Sinisa Mihajlovic must settle for being a frustrated observer on Sunday when the Genoa side goes up against his former team, Lazio.
Mihajlovic will begin serving a two-match touchline ban this weekend as punishment for being sent off for dissent in Sunday's goalless draw against Fiorentina.
The former Lazio player will also be suspended for the clash against another of his ex-clubs, Inter Milan.
"I will not be able to be on the bench against my former teams Lazio and Inter Milan, which are two very important games for my side," Mihajlovic said. "I'm surprised and disappointed by the punishment.
"However, I will not appeal the decision as a sign of respect for my club but I'm very angry with the ruling."
Mihajlovic will be hoping his side can keep up their good run of form.
Samp have lost just one of their last six league games and travel to the Stadio Olimpico in 12th place and riding a three-match unbeaten run.
Lazio have lost just once at home this year.
The Biancoceleste edged Parma 3-2 in the last round to remain in the race for Europa League football next season.
Lazio are eighth in the standings, four points adrift of Inter Milan, who are fifth and hold the last European qualifying spot.
"We are in the battle to qualify for the Europa League," Lazio midfielder Antonio Candreva said. "We will do all that we can to achieve this.
"We just have to maintain our focus and work as hard as we can in our remaining games."
Lazio, coached by Edy Reja, will be without midfielder Cristian Ledesma, who is suspended.
Mihajlovic will have all of his players available, with the exception of injured defender Daniele Gastaldello.
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