Eusebio Di Francesco acknowledges Roma’s goal drought is becoming a real problem after the 1-0 home defeat to Sampdoria.
The Giallorossi are now without a victory in six Serie A games, their longest negative streak since February 2013, picking up only three points.
Alessandro Florenzi saw his penalty parried by Emiliano Viviano in the first half, then Duvan Zapata snatched the decisive goal 10 minutes from time.
Eusebio Di Francesco acknowledges Roma’s goal drought is becoming a real problem after the 1-0 home defeat to Sampdoria.
The Giallorossi are now without a victory in six Serie A games, their longest negative streak since February 2013, picking up only three points.
Alessandro Florenzi saw his penalty parried by Emiliano Viviano in the first half, then Duvan Zapata snatched the decisive goal 10 minutes from time.
“The first 25 minutes were terrible, we weren’t in the game at all and insisted on short passes, so we survived thanks to our goalkeeper,” the Coach told Mediaset Premium.
“I had to switch the wingers and they were forced to play in a different way, which made us rediscover our fluidity and pace, but then we conceded a naïve goal with perhaps Sampdoria’s only shot on target of the second half.
“I didn’t like the attitude and approach to begin with, but objectively I can’t understand how we didn’t score when we had so many clear-cut chances in the second half.
“I don’t know why we stepped on to the field almost afraid. We are struggling to score goals at the moment and that is causing us real problems.”
Florenzi was an unexpected choice for the penalty, as Edin Dzeko was on the field at the time.
“Anyone could’ve taken it. Florenzi has been taking them very well in training and he said he felt ready. He didn’t convert, but only those who don’t take penalties don’t miss them.”
Patrik Schick was out injured with Maxime Gonalons and Rick Karsdorp.
“He hurt himself during yesterday’s training session, it was a muscular problem close to the other tear. It’s a great shame, as he was improving and was due to take part today.
“We are creating so many chances at the moment, but can’t seem to get them into the net and that leaves us open to conceding. After the first 25-30 minutes, in which Sampdoria were much stronger, we did get it back on track and had more chances than they did.
“Admittedly, we could’ve defended better on the cross for Duvan Zapata’s goal.”
Edin Dzeko remains at the centre of transfer speculation with Chelsea, so does the thought of losing his stars to bigger clubs give him sleepless nights?
“What gives me sleepless nights is the performance in the first 25-30 minutes and failing to put the ball in the net. As for the rest, that will be resolved by January 31.”