Claudio Ranieri has warned Roma they are “gambling with our Champions League future” against Basel and has faith Francesco Totti can make it.
The Giallorossi are on the verge of elimination from the competition after their shock 3-1 home defeat to the Swiss outfit.
“We are gambling with our future in the Champions League. We have to play with a calm approach and determination,” said the Coach.
Claudio Ranieri has warned Roma they are “gambling with our Champions League future” against Basel and has faith Francesco Totti can make it.
The Giallorossi are on the verge of elimination from the competition after their shock 3-1 home defeat to the Swiss outfit.
“We are gambling with our future in the Champions League. We have to play with a calm approach and determination,” said the Coach.
“We must avoid the errors we made in the first game and take advantage of Basel's mistakes. It is a very important game for both teams and we want to continue in this tournament.
“We have not been very lucky so far. Basel scored with all three opportunities at the Olimpico. Tomorrow evening our opponents are playing on home turf, so will need to take the initiative more.”
There are injury woes for Ranieri, who is missing David Pizarro, Matteo Brighi, Rodrigo Taddei and Philippe Mexes.
There are also doubts over captain Totti, who will be suspended for the Rome derby in Serie A.
“Totti has pain in his shoulder, but I think he should be on the field tomorrow evening. The other players give me guarantees and the team spirit is sky high, so that is crucial to do well.
“Roma are a united squad with a strong desire to battle and get out of this difficult situation.”
Marco Borriello was a late addition to the ‘maybe' list, as he limped off with a slight muscular problem during today's training session in Switzerland.