The Bianconeri boss willing to rest his star striker as the Italian international is recovering from foot injury; boss targets qualification for the quarter-finals.
Udinese head-coach, Francesco Guidolin, has admitted that he will not risk prolific striker, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/AZ-c38571 Alkmaar.
The Bianconeri will take on the Dutch side in the first-leg of the last 16 round of Europa League at Stadio Friuli on Thursday, 8 March.
Di Natale suffered a minor fracture to his foot in a recent league game against AC Milan. However, the veteran striker has made a recovery from the injury, but the manager believes that playing him in three games in a week is too
much of an asking for the hitman.
The tactician hinted that he might start the former Empoli star from the bench, as he has the ability to change any game on his own. Guidolin believes that he needs to take care of the players in such a tiring schedule.
While talking to the reporters, Guidolin said:
“He needs to recuperate and can’t handle three games in a week. He can come off the bench and change the match, but in such a long and tiring campaign it is necessary to take into account the age of the players and their condition.”
The former Palermo boss has targeted qualification for the quarter-finals of the competition, and is happy with his team’s tag of ‘surprise package.’
“It’s good to be considered the surprise outfit. Always starting from the shadows, emerging into the spotlight to amaze people is what pushes us to give our all. It’s the best thing for us. We are proud to be in the final 16 and
care about doing well in this competition.”
Udinese are the only Italian team left in the Europa League, as Lazio were knocked out in the last 32 round.
The Zebrette have had a wonderful campaign so far, as they are placed 4th in the league table. Only two points separate them from third-placed, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Lazio-c39775, and Guidolin is seeking second successive UEFA Champions League qualification
for his side.
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