Paulo Fonseca is keeping Roma and Lazio on their toes ahead of tomorrow’s Derby della Capitale, hinting even Chris Smalling could debut.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
The Giallorossi are the underdogs going in, having fumbled a lead three times for a 3-3 draw with Genoa, while Lazio won 3-0 away to Sampdoria.
Paulo Fonseca is keeping Roma and Lazio on their toes ahead of tomorrow’s Derby della Capitale, hinting even Chris Smalling could debut.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
The Giallorossi are the underdogs going in, having fumbled a lead three times for a 3-3 draw with Genoa, while Lazio won 3-0 away to Sampdoria.
“I have experienced several different derbies in my life, so I understand it is a special game for the fans and the city. You can sense it in the streets too,” said the Portuguese Coach in his Press conference.
“It is nonetheless a match that is worth three points and I can’t wait to play it. People say Lazio are favourites, but those are just words. Lazio are a very strong team with great players and a well-drilled tactical system, but everything must be proved on the field.
“We see football in team terms, that is our identity and our way of defending, so we do not focus on neutralising particular individuals rather than contrasting them collectively.”
There could be several changes to the Roma XI and Fonseca is eager to keep everyone on their toes, including the latest arrivals.
“Gianluca Mancini and Davide Zappacosta are ready to play, you’ll see what happens tomorrow. We have been testing Alessandro Florenzi in a more advanced role on the left, but we’ll see if I opt for that solution, it is being considered. I have no intention of revealing what tactical approach we will take. We prepared for every situation and you’ll see tomorrow.
“Smalling is also in the squad. We were looking for an experienced centre-back and he has over 200 games for Manchester United, so his characteristics are suited to our team. He is fast and aggressive, he can add quality to our squad.
“Jordan Veretout could be in the starting XI. You’ll see, but everyone is ready to play other than Leonardo Spinazzola and Diego Perotti, who are injured.”
The former Shakhtar Donetsk Coach insists he is not “a dogmatic tactician. I believe in a style of football, but the objective is to win games. Based on the results, I will change the team if needs be.”