Fonseca: Team spirit got us this win

Justin Kluivert, Diego Perotti and Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored the goals for the Giallorossi.

It wasn’t an easy game tonight against the second-best defence in the league. What does the result tell us about the maturity of this side?

“We got the win because we had a great attitude and real team spirit. We were up against a side that defends well and shows a lot of aggression in defence. We didn’t move the ball well, but our attitude was excellent and that’s really important against this type of opposition.”

Lorenzo Pellegrini is now on eight assists for the season. Were you expecting him to deliver so much quality?

“Yes. Anyone that knows him knows that he’s a wonderful player. His final decision-making is excellent.”

Your side takes a few risks and plays good football going forward. Is that all part of the plan?

“The team has improved a lot in defence – defensive balance is really important for us. When you have that security, the team has more confidence going forward. Defending well is crucial for us.”

You’re always talking about wanting to dominate games, but today you played a more balanced match and got the win. Could we see this style again going forward?

“We want to dominate more and keep hold of the ball. I really like it when the team plays in the attacking half, but that wasn’t possible against Verona because of the kind of side they are. We worked on finding the space, because when you’re playing against a team that presses aggressively the key is to focus on playing quickly. I want us to play football that enables us to be close to the opposition’s goal.”

Have you made any changes in terms of physical preparation recently?

“No, we’re doing the same work. We don’t have many muscular problems – often they’ve been impact injuries. We haven’t changed anything.”