Daniele De Rossi reveals what he told Tammy Abraham ahead of his first Roma start in 323 days, while they are ‘ready for Thiago Motta’s Bologna surprises.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.30 UK time (16.30 GMT).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Milan–Inter on the LIVEBLOG.
There are just four points separating fourth and fifth in the table, although the Giallorossi still need to play the remaining 18 minutes plus stoppages against Udinese on Thursday.
“Thiago is a coach who likes to surprise with his formations and attitude,” De Rossi told DAZN.
“They often saw a lot of the ball against big teams, but in other situations would sit back and wait. We’ll see what they do today. We have prepared for both eventualities, so we’re ready for whatever surprise we get.”
De Rossi advice for Abraham
Romelu Lukaku was injured in the Europa League quarter-final victory over Milan, so Abraham gets his first start since the devastating knee ligament tear on June 2.
“It’s good to have enthusiasm, and he has it. At times having a serious injury can also give you that frustration that comes from being forced to sit there and watch your teammates, so when you get the chance, you want to get out there and make up for lost time.
“The important thing is that he concentrates on football, not to waste that energy in things that are less important. I spoke to him, he is very concentrated, I have great faith in him. There can be some struggles after returning from a long injury lay-off, but we have great faith in him.”
Stephan El Shaarawy is a veteran at Roma, yet seems to be immune to fatigue and starts again this evening.
“Everyone’s fitness levels are decent, obviously we’re going to be a bit more tired than Bologna. El Shaarawy has to push and when he runs out of steam, which will probably be before the 90th minute, we have other options off the bench who can do well too.”