Lazio coach Vladimir Petkovic has told Mauro Zarate to fight for his place.

Zarate was surprisingly left out of the squad for Sunday's 3-0 win at Pescara, but it was only described as 'a technical decision.'

"He too has to earn his place in the team, just like all the others," Petkovic told Lazio Style Radio.

"I am certain that after this break for international duty, those who return will want to give their all to confirm their place or take it off someone else."