When compared to the previous season, where Udinese was only in 12th position, Udinese's performance has greatly improved this season.
As you said we have to appreciate Udinese's performance this season even though in the end they failed to get into the top 4. Because we have
to be realistic with the quality of Udinese players, the majority of whom are mediocre players, very difficult for Udinese to play consistently until
the end of the season. According to my opinion why now Udinese can be in 3rd position, it's because Udinese has improved in performance,
but another thing is because some of the big teams have decreased in performance at the beginning of this season. But if big teams like Inter,
Juventus and Roma find their best form this season and start playing consistently, it will be difficult for Udinese to stay in the top 4. At least
Udinese will struggle to be in the top 6 this season, so that next season they can play in European competitions.
Udinese's performance at the start of this season should be appreciated considering they are consistent with only losing 1 time to Milan. However, Udinese is not a very strong team to compete in the top 4 considering that from several seasons Udinese has never entered the top 10 in the final standings.
If it's because Udinese managed to beat Roma and Inter, then I hope their performance can improve. In my opinion, Udinese should set the target this season to finish the season in the top 10 or higher. That will be the basic motivation for the players to have a good performance in every match. Many other proofs are expected, but hesitate to say they are capable.