Gasperini: Roma and Lazio topping Serie A is 'a surprise for everyone'

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini said the sight of both Roma and Lazio at the top of Serie A is "a surprise a bit for everyone," according to comments reported by Corriere dello Sport at the Charity Event 2006 of Stelle nello Sport, where he received an award.

The paper reported the standings as Lazio on 29 points and Roma on 27, with Roma coming off a home win over Sassuolo. Gasperini called the situation "also a value and recognition for the city," adding that Roma always fills its stadium while Lazio "perhaps has other problems."

Gasperini said his side has been competitive for several months and that last season's second half was at a high level, while cautioning that eleven matches are not many but are significant for how the team behaves. He said the environment gives the squad "great fuel to do well."

On ambitions, he said his aim is always to look ahead and that after the international break the direction is to continue on the path taken. He also said Inter's win over Como adds further value to a balanced and extraordinary league. The comments were reported by Corriere dello Sport and were not presented as official club confirmation.