30 January 2015
Andrea Pirlo says the Bianconeri have no option but to keep winning if they are to continue to keep nearest challengers Roma at arm’s length.
The midfielder insists the current seven-point advantage offers no guarantees and believes any slip-ups could prove costly as the season enters its pivotal stage.
The next challenge in store for the league leaders comes on Sunday afternoon in Udine, where Pirlo is expecting a tough encounter at a notoriously tricky ground.
Speaking on Jtv’s Filo Diretto, the 35-year-old began: “It’s a difficult venue to play at. They approach the game following a decent win at Empoli which took them away from the congested pack in mid-table, so they’ll be able to play with clear heads. We need to win to keep Roma at bay, they’ll give us a run for our money right until the end.”
A calm and composed person by nature, Pirlo says he has no difficulty in finding the right motivation to spur him on when taking to the field for the Bianconeri, with hunger for further silverware the main driving force behind his dazzling displays over the past few seasons.
“That’s my character, I’m not the type of person who needs to find my focus in the days leading up to the game. I’m able to enjoy a laugh and a joke, but the minute I get on the pitch and hear the crowd, I’m immediately in the zone and focused on the target.
“You need to possess the desire to keep winning, playing and having fun. Having the right mindset is crucial for a footballer.”
