SALAS HAPPIER UNDER ZOFF THAN ERIKSSON

The Swedish coach, who quit as manager of the Italian champions at the beginning of the month to take up his position of England coach, had repeatedly left Salas out of his starting line-up when he was in charge and the marksman is just glad for the change in management.

The Chilean international hit-man, who was linked with a move away from the Stadio Olimpico all summer, has started the first two games under Zoff's control and he has rewarded the new coach's faith in him with two goals and two overall fine performances.

The former River Plate star admits that the change in his play reflects the change in surroundings at the club mainly the appointment of former Italian national coach Zoff.

"Sven Goran Eriksson was less relaxed than Zoff," said Salas. "My situation with the team has improved with it.

"Things are very well - we are playing with the ball more on the ground."

Things did not look good for Salas when Lazio made high profile signings in the summer taking Claudio Lopez from Valencia and Hernan Crespo from Parma in big-money moves and it seemed that Salas would be on his way out of the club.

The 26-year-old, who has scored five goals this season in Serie A, has been the subject of intense speculation regarding his future and he had been linked with moves to Parma, Internazionale and Monaco, but is now happy to stay in Rome.