Stankovic still to pen new deal

DEJAN STANKOVIC has still yet to resolve the issue of his contract extension with Lazio, which boss Roberto Mancini thinks could effect his performance on the pitch.

Mancini and Stankovic's fellow Serbia & Montenegro team-mate Sinisa Mihajlovic both underlined that they need to give the influential midfielder space and time to extend his stay in the capital.

"I think for the case to be solved we need a little more time," said Mancini. "Whatever decision he will take, we will respect it.

"Anyway we are optimistic. At this moment, Stankovic feels a lot of pressure and he needs to be tranquil."

Defensive stalwart Mihajlovic in fact revealed that the attacking star is really quite nervous about the situation and hopes it can be resolved quickly so The Biancoceleste can get the best out of Stankovic.

"He's a young and sensible guy," said the hardened stopper. "But this situation is making him nervous.

"It's hard for him living in this situation, a situation that has to be resolved as soon as possible.

"There was time to find an agreement before the championship started, but this matter doesn't help him or the team."

Stankovic and his representative, Vinicio Fioreanelli, are due to meet Stadio Olimico officials in the next few days but it seems unless Lazio are willing to up their offer of a five-year deal worth ‚é¼2.5 million (£1.7 million) a year, the stalemate will continue.