GASPERINI'S POST MATCH REACTIONS

Gian Piero Gasperini spoke in the post-match press conference following the 2-0 win over Udinese.

“I knew the game would be tough because I believe Udinese are better than their position in the table says. The boys played a great game, we were put under pressure in the first half, but we created plenty of chances. In the second half then it was very one-sided, even if it was our third game in a week. When we play against these teams that try and match you and won’t give you any space, we know we must be more technical, quicker with the ball, but we forgot that in the first half. In the second we played much better."

On the Champions League race: “There are 12 points up for grabs, everyone must win three games and if we win four, we mathematically qualify. There is the risk that one of these teams can go from fighting to the Champions League to ending up with nothing and that makes it all the more interesting.”

On Josip Ilicic: “We hope to have him available on Sunday, but he is suffering from muscle fatigue, he can’t shoot or pass and when you’re like that you can’t play."

(Photo Getty Images)