Edy Reja dismissed talk of a title tilt ahead of today’s clash with Bologna, insisting Lazio’s aim is a top-three finish in Serie A.
Lazio are just six points behind leaders Milan following last weekend’s derby success against Roma.
But for Reja it’s important to keep his side’s objectives at realistic levels.
“Our aim is a place in the Champions League but there’s not a lot of distance between the top teams and our obligation is to do our best,” he said.
“When I have all my players back I’ll have more choice but, trust me, we can’t compete with the top two.
“You never know in football but the important thing is to know that we’re an excellent team and we can compete (individually) with anyone.”
Reja believes it is simply too much to hope for both leaders Milan and Juve to go through the bad spells needed to give his side a chance.
“There can be a dip in form. Juve have drawn a few games but Milan aren’t missing a step and their great self-confidence is coming back,” he said.