Mourinho: ‘Roma in a difficult situation’

Jose Mourinho warns Roma go into a key clash with Milan missing several players and ‘in a difficult situation’ that could affect their objectives for this season.

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Torino-Atalanta on the LIVEBLOG.

It is a showdown for fourth place, with both sides on 56 points in a packed season that will also see them playing in the semi-finals of their respective European competitions.

They played out a 2-2 draw in January, so this result will also decide the head-to-head record.

“Some of you asked about our objectives at the end of the season and I was always very relaxed in saying it depends on the situation,” Mourinho told DAZN.

“Our team at the maximum potential is one thing and with problems is another. This is a moment when our season is decided and we happen to be in a difficult situation.”

The injuries are piling up for Chris Smalling, Diego Llorente, Rick Karsdorp and Gini Wijnaldum, while Paulo Dybala is only fit enough for a spot on the bench.

Mourinho has repeatedly complained all season about the lack of strength in depth, particularly when playing in the Europa League.

“We need to have faith in the players, but also know that a squad like ours it makes a difference if it’s player A or player B. We tried to put as much faith in the lads as possible, tried to reduce the unpredictability of our football and give foundations of confidence.

“We will always have that empathy with the crowd in the stadium and hope to get a good result.”