Lazio chief Igli Tare has defended Vedat Muriqi over his disappointing first season.

The Kosovo international joined from Fenerbahce for €18.5m plus bonuses last summer, but has scored just two goals in 26 competitive appearances.

“It's his first year at Lazio and in Italy, so it's difficult to settle in quickly anyway, let alone after two injuries and covid," Tare told RTV Dukagjini.

“Everyone here has the utmost respect for Muriqi.

"We hope he can manage to express himself to his best, because he is a player who can give a great deal to Italy and as a representative of football in Kosovo."