August Action

By: cathal | August 21st, 2008

Several Lazio players were in action last night for their nations and it was a great night for our men as none of them suffered a loss. Pandev in particular had a night to remember, bagging two goals in a 4-1 win against Luxembourg. Goran appears to be in fantastic form as the new season approaches.

Carrizo managed a clean sheet as an understrength Argentina failed to impress in a 0-0 draw with Belarus. Although the result was a disaster for the South Americans, Carrizo should be happy with the clean sheet and will no doubt gain in confidence too. Highlights from the game can be seen below:

Lichsteiner did not play in Switzerland’s 4-1 victory over Cyprus. This may turn out to be a good thing for Lazio as Stephan should be fresh for us and despite Switzerland winning comprehensively, the defence did not impress. Stephan should be in good shape for the games ahead. Rozehnal looked solid in a 2-2 draw with England while Radu’s Romania ground out a 1-0 win over Latvia.

There is no let up in the transfer market as new rumours emerge and deals near completion. One deal that has been completed is Giampiero Pinzi’s move to Chievo. This is news that will sadden the hordes of Lazio fans that have been hoping to see him sign for us this summer. I am one of the many disappointed fans; he would have been a great signing but sadly it wasn’t to be. Pinzi’s move to Chievo will probably fuel the recurring rumour of a Stendardo - Marchisio loan deal. This rumour has been gathering weight recently and I will be anxiously waiting to see if anything materialises. Marchisio is an exciting prospect that I would love to see at the club.

On the striker front, a new name has been mentioned. Salvatore Bruno of Modena, who scored 18 goals in Serie B last term is the latest in a long list of forwards to be linked with the club. I honestly think the media are clutching at straws at this stage, especially if there is any truth in the rumour that Inzaghi will rejoin the main squad. Apparently Mutarelli and Tare have also met to discuss Massimo’s return to squad.

Speculation continues regarding the future of Ledesma and Foggia. Juventus are believed to be keen on Ledesma, however alternative reports suggest he is more likely to stay for another season and then leave, perhaps to Napoli. The latest comments have come from his agent suggesting Cristian wishes to stay at Lazio. The sitaution is becoming increasingly farcical. Other less credible reports suggest Foggia may depart too. I think both guys are good for the team despite the controversy that surrounds them and I would love to see them both line out for us this season.