Paulo Fonseca has confirmed that Chris Smalling will make his Roma debut against Atalanta in Serie A tomorrow evening.
Roma are riding a wave of positivity at the moment, with three wins on the bounce and 10 goals scored, but Fonseca is demanding a “level head” from his players.
“As I always tell the squad, we need to keep a level head,” he said at a Press conference.
Paulo Fonseca has confirmed that Chris Smalling will make his Roma debut against Atalanta in Serie A tomorrow evening.
Roma are riding a wave of positivity at the moment, with three wins on the bounce and 10 goals scored, but Fonseca is demanding a “level head” from his players.
“As I always tell the squad, we need to keep a level head,” he said at a Press conference.
“We need to stay focused; we haven’t done anything yet – we’ve only won three games. There’s still a lot to learn and improve and we need to keep our feet on the ground.
“Kolarov and Dzeko are really important players for us. I’d like to give them a rest but it’s not possible right now. But they’re great professionals and as athletes they take great care over their fitness.
“Cristante is a smart player, he understands what I want in that role and produces it. He’s also a brave player who is prepared to take some risks. He’s strong defensively, good on the ball and tactically aware.
“This is a very united group, all pushing in the same direction. There was no need for me to stress the importance of that – and that’s always key if you want to compete for something. That unity came naturally.
“Pau Lopez made a vital save against Bologna. He’s adapting well to Serie A. He’s able to work with Marco Savorani, one of the best goalkeeping coaches in the world. I’m pleased with him, as I am with Mirante and Fuzato.
“I’m very realistic. The team is improving, but we have a different game tomorrow – a difficult one. It’s great that people believe in us but we need to be focusing solely on the next game.”
Smalling has yet to play for the Giallorossi since his recent loan arrival from Manchester United due to a muscle problem…
“He’ll play tomorrow,” concluded the Coach.