Eusebio Di Francesco is demanding a Roma side that “battle” Atletico Madrid on Tuesday as the clash “can be decisive.”
Roma open their Champions League campaign against Atleti, who have reached two of the last four Finals, and Di Francesco is adamant his side are not disadvantaged by their lack of football over the weekend.
“We have to fight against their weapons and give everything we have,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
Eusebio Di Francesco is demanding a Roma side that “battle” Atletico Madrid on Tuesday as the clash “can be decisive.”
Roma open their Champions League campaign against Atleti, who have reached two of the last four Finals, and Di Francesco is adamant his side are not disadvantaged by their lack of football over the weekend.
“We have to fight against their weapons and give everything we have,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
“I want to see a determined team because it’ll be a real battle. Roma have won a bit in Champions League lately, and we must start well because tomorrow’s game can be decisive.
“Atletico have their own identity, it’s not an aesthetic one but very pragmatic.
“They achieve their objectives and, from a mental perspective, Simeone’s done an incredible job.
“We’ve prepared for this game well, after that we’ll see what the pitch says, but several of the Atletico players that we’ll see didn’t play in the League against Valencia.
“Strootman? We have the qualities to be able to hurt Atletico, Kevin’s a leader and he knows how to drag the team forward and we need people like him.
“I want players with character, we have to extract everything that we have [inside of us]. Football is all about games like the one tomorrow.
“Peres or Florenzi? I’ll make assessments between today and tomorrow, I haven’t decided yet.
“Schick? The injury seems less serious than expected, I hope he returns between Verona and Benevento.
“He needs to train, but I’m glad that he’s out for less than what was originally thought.
“Moreno? Hector’s fine, he’s returned after playing 90 minutes for Mexico. Perotti? He had an extraordinary game, both from a physical and technical point of view, with high intensity.
“He was with me at our training camp in Pinzolo. He’s changed his way of playing football a bit. He plays closer to goal now.
“He’s in optimal physical condition, and we can’t forget El Shaarawy either. We have two very good players in that part of the pitch. Some goals would surely help him.”