Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini admitted some frustration after their 3-1 Coppa Italia defeat of Cagliari.

While Luis Muriel was on the scoresheet, La Dea were denied repeatedly by goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.

“We played very well, but if you don't kill off the game, then you risk having to start all over again. We saw that today with the equaliser, but over the 90 minutes it was very good," the coach told RAI Sport.

“We're in a good period of form, but if we can be more prolific, more clinical in front of goal and finish games off earlier, it'll be better.

“There are a lot of games this season, but we introduced players who haven't had as much room and they did an excellent job. That allows me to widen the options and give everyone more guarantees going forward."

Muriel was on target yet again and had a rare start in the Atalanta XI.

“He is a gem of a forward, who always had enormous quality, he just needed to show it consistency. He is doing that with us, even if he often plays from the bench. I think he has found the right environment in Bergamo for him to give his best," continued Gasperini.

“Now that there are five substitutions and we play every three games, it becomes more important to have alternatives. I must say that I didn't like the idea of five substitutions at first, but it's been a great boost.

“The fact we are able to give someone 50-60 minutes on the pitch means he can play several games in a row, whereas with several 90 minutes in quick succession, he'll then need a rest."