Di Francesco praises Samp application in tough Crotone trip

Speaking after Sampdoria’s third-round Coppa Italia win over Crotone, Eusebio Di Francesco saw numerous positives in the 3-1 victory.

The coach said: “It was a dangerous game for us. They had more minutes in their legs and more competitive matches behind them.

“It’s never easy to play at the Scida – it’s a tough place to come. We struggled at times but that’s part of the game.

“I’m happy with the result and the application of the players, in a game in which we couldn’t slip up.”

With Lazio to come on Sunday at the Marassi, in Doria’s first Serie A match of the campaign, he continued: “I saw a lot of good situations in the attacking third, but we need more balance at the back.

“We need to cut out some of those technical errors. However I’m seeing good application – this team is used to working to improve and being committed.

“Full marks for commitment and desire. One thing we need to do better is our reading of the opponents’ pressing – sometimes we get our timing wrong.

“For now that’s okay – we will strike the balance. Many of the players were used to less direct build up play. We’ll make sure we’re ready for the start of the league season.”