“Our problem overall this season has been the idea we could get the maximum result with the minimum effort,” warned the Coach.

“Against Siena we seemed like no-hopers, then we were fantastic in the derby. This is an all or nothing side – we have no middle ground.”

The Biancocelesti had a taste of that recently, as after prestigious victories over Roma and Genoa, they lost 1-0 at home to Atalanta.

The risk is that Lazio will lose focus again ahead of Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final with Sampdoria, a game that will send one of these teams into the Europa Cup.

“We are still in the running for a place in Europe a few days from an important match,” insisted Rossi.

“The test against Udinese will also be useful to see our form. One thing is certain – I will pick the team based on this match and not looking ahead to Wednesday.”

Goran Pandev and Pasquale Foggia are both out of action, but should be fit enough to face Samp.

Cristian Ledesma is suspended, so Francelino Matuzalem will start in midfield, especially as he is banned for the Coppa Italia anyway.