Ranieri: “Courage and confidence – the way I like it”

It was the perfect way for Sampdoria to start again after the international break: a dominant display and a thoroughly convincing 3-0 defeat of Lazio.

Ever the gentleman, Claudio Ranieri first pointed out the difficulties his counterpart had, before expressing his delight at his own troops’ performance.

“Lazio were missing some key players and [Simone] Inzaghi couldn’t field his strongest side but we
produced a confident display nonetheless,” the coach began.

“We gave away a bit too much but we know they have some magnificent players. This win will help us get over our defeat to Benevento.

A second win on the bounce for the Blucerchiati – after their victory at Fiorentina before the international break – shows they’re very much a team on the up.

“The most important thing is what the president said at the end of last season – that he doesn’t want to suffer anymore,” Ranieri continued.

“We’ve brought in some experienced players and hopefully we won’t have to suffer. We’ve won two and lost two of our first four games.

“We need to keep our feet planted firmly on the ground and play as a team, as we did today. I want us to be aware of our ability and stay humble at the same time.”