Isaksen Credits Inner Peace and Gattuso for Lazio Form

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Lazio winger Isaksen says he has found "inner peace" on and off the pitch and credits coach Gattuso with getting the best out of him, in comments made during an appearance on the Danish programme 'Totalfodbold' while on international duty with Denmark, as reported by Corriere dello Sport.

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Isaksen described a period of personal contentment, saying he feels happy and has gained greater self-confidence, with everything going in the right direction. He traced his current form partly to a difficult summer in which he dealt with injuries, including surgical procedures and rehabilitation, and needed time to recover. Once he found the right rhythm, he said, his body responded and allowed him to train and play at full capacity, and he believes his performances are the result of all these factors combined.

On his club situation, Isaksen said he now has a coach at Lazio who sees something in him and believes in him. He explained that under Gattuso he does not have to overthink, and that this is precisely when he performs best. Defensively, he said his task is simply to follow his opponent, whereas under other coaches the setup was far more tactical and defensive. While acknowledging those coaches were also well prepared, he said the current approach aims to defend in a way that allows the team to push forward and attack immediately, which he said is exactly how he loves to play.

Isaksen called Gattuso a great motivator who manages the group excellently and draws the best from each player. He said it is a pleasure to arrive at the training ground and that the players look forward to training every single day, though he joked that it is extremely hard work. He added that the team runs a great deal under Gattuso but that it is fantastic, and that the squad is extraordinary and functioning perfectly at the moment. He said returning home to play for the national team gives him an extra boost.