Roma director Walter Sabatini admits he was “surprised” with Luciano Spalletti’s starting XI against Viktoria Plzen.
The Europa League opener kicks off at 18.00 UK time (17.00 GMT), follow the action on our LIVEBLOG.
There are some unusual picks in the line-up, including Gerson in midfield and a ‘small’ trident attack.
Roma director Walter Sabatini admits he was “surprised” with Luciano Spalletti’s starting XI against Viktoria Plzen.
The Europa League opener kicks off at 18.00 UK time (17.00 GMT), follow the action on our LIVEBLOG.
There are some unusual picks in the line-up, including Gerson in midfield and a ‘small’ trident attack.
“I didn’t know Gerson was going to play either, as I only got here this morning,” Sabatini told laroma24.it.
“He will have a chance. He is settling in well. Obviously he can’t be the key, but this will help him to grow and understand the team movements.
“He is proving to be a creative midfielder, a 10, but in our plans he has to become an internal midfielder. Do I like the line-up? I prefer a more attacking side.”
Juan Manuel Iturbe was surprisingly chosen for the trident with Diego Perotti and Stephan El Shaarawy.
“I think Spalletti is trying to put more responsibility on Iturbe’s shoulders. He needs to put his quality on to the field and be more decisive. A player like him has to finish this downward slide both for him and his team.
“Without Edin Dzeko we gain in some ways and lose others, as we have had some good results with the ‘small’ trident. I do think Spalletti is getting the best out of Dzeko, though.”
Francesco Totti is on the bench after his goal and assist to beat Sampdoria 3-2 on Sunday.
“You cannot replicate the technique of Totti. Francesco is helping the squad, his teammates and the club. It is difficult for players to emerge from the shadow of Totti, as there’s a big gap between what he can achieve and what others can do.
“However, emulation is the secret of football.”
Spalletti has often complained about a lack of mental strength at Roma, particularly in Europe. What is the cause?
“If I knew that, I’d tell the Coach. I don’t think it’s just a lack of character. We do tend to slip on banana skins, but it’s also true the team has given some very positive responses at times. We hope the improvements can continue.”