“We know that we are doing very well,” he grinned after thrashing Lecce 3-0 at the San Paolo.

That result put them in joint second place and, if either Milan or Juventus win on Sunday night, it will mean they are level third.

“There is a long way to go, we just have to continue like this. Our objective is a place in the Champions League, we cannot deny it.”

Lavezzi has become a hero at the San Paolo, so much that many have called for Diego Armando Maradona’s Number 10 jersey to come out of retirement so he can wear it.

This is one of the reasons why ‘Pocho’ has no interest in reported bids from Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester United.

“I want to stay at Napoli, that is the truth of the matter. What was written in the papers is not what I think.

“I am happy here and I do not understand why on earth I would want to leave.”