Mayoral enjoys starring role

The Spaniard scored twice inside the first 30 minutes to send the Giallorossi on the way to another important victory, marking his first such double in Serie A since he made the switch to Italy.

With the two goals – one a close range strike, the other a beauty from distance – showing different aspects of his ability, Mayoral was in high spirits after the game.

“I’m really pleased to have got my first league brace for the club,” Mayoral said.

“I am pleased both for the goals and for the win, because it’s not easy to win here.”

With Mayoral having spent much of the season as a back-up to Edin Dzeko, his performance was a reminder to coach Paulo Fonseca of how he can contribute to the cause.

“I keep working hard, in every game and every training session, to the best of my abilities – and then it is up to the coach to make his decisions,” he added.

“I’m always ready to play and to help the team.”