'Asked me' - Lazio coach reveals why Dele-Bashiru replaced ex-Chelsea star in draw v Torino

Lazio coach Marco Baroni has revealed why he introduced Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in their 1-1 draw against Torino, explaining that the substitution was necessary after Pedro asked to be taken off.

"Pedro asked me to be substituted because he had given his all, he had a crazy game," Baroni stated after the match.

The former Chelsea winger had been one of Lazio’s brightest performers before he was replaced in the 73rd minute.

With Lazio leading 1-0 at the time, Baroni saw an opportunity for Dele-Bashiru to make an impact in midfield, taking advantage of the spaces left by Torino’s pressing. 

"I put Dele-Bashiru on because there was space for him, it was his game," the Lazio boss explained, according to lalaziosiamonoi.

However, the substitution did not go as planned as Lazio conceded a late equalizer when Dele-Bashiru failed to track Torino’s Gvidas Gineitis, who took advantage of the opening to score past Ivan Provedel. 

The Nigerian midfielder's defensive lapse proved costly, denying Lazio a crucial three points.

Baroni did not hold back in his post-match assessment of Dele-Bashiru’s performance. 

"The problem is that he has to do better when he enters the area," he said, pointing to the lack of defensive awareness that led to the goal.

The result leaves Lazio level with city rivals Roma on 52 points, making the race for European qualification even more intense. 

With criticism from local media, Dele-Bashiru will now be looking to bounce back in the coming games as he works to win back the confidence of his coach and fans.

Wale Adejumo

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