Luciano Spalletti warns Roma not to underestimate Bologna and insists “I’m one of the few who still treat Francesco Totti like a real player.”
It kicks off on Monday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Everyone is available, as William Vainqueur is back, Antonio Rudiger is ok after an abscess and Daniele De Rossi is fine after back pain,” outlined the Coach in a Press conference.
Luciano Spalletti warns Roma not to underestimate Bologna and insists “I’m one of the few who still treat Francesco Totti like a real player.”
It kicks off on Monday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Everyone is available, as William Vainqueur is back, Antonio Rudiger is ok after an abscess and Daniele De Rossi is fine after back pain,” outlined the Coach in a Press conference.
There is one very important absentee, as Radja Nainggolan will sit out a ban.
“Kevin Strootman is getting increasingly fit, but lacks intensity and match fitness. I am convinced that when I do pick him, he’ll be truly ready.
“I have to take into account that every player wants to get involved and give their contribution to Roma. I have three players for a single role who can replace Nainggolan, which for a Coach is an advantage.”
Is there the risk the Giallorossi could be still celebrating the 4-1 win over Lazio and be caught out by giant-killers Bologna, who have already beaten Napoli and held Juventus?
“Roberto Donadoni has done such a great job in transferring all his character and quality to the squad, the same elements that made him such a wonderful player.
“The current dip in form for Bologna is just a natural consequence of escaping the relegation zone so quickly, as they relaxed. That is why this can be a dangerous game for us, because they realise now that there’s more to be done.”
Will Edin Dzeko start or Diego Perotti be used as a False 9?
“A Coach looks at the collective. Roma are doing well with Dzeko and without Dzeko. It is important to look at attacking moves collectively and ensure the goals are spread out through the team, as you don’t want to become dependent on only one striker. A dip in form is inevitable over the course of a campaign.
“Dzeko is training in splendid fashion and has to consider the team results his main objective. We all work for Roma and its success.
“What should Iago Falque say? He was always first choice before I came along, now he isn’t. That is part of the sport. I might be an irritation for some players, but that’s normal.
“The other morning I asked Maicon if there was anything wrong and he replied: ‘I’m annoyed with you. You never let me play.’ Then he went back on the training camp and gave his absolute all.
“I like it when players tell me things with absolute honesty when giving 100 per cent for themselves and their teammates.”
Does that go for Spalletti’s rapport with Totti as well?
“He might have a different approach, but he is still full of confidence and wants to help Roma achieve their objectives. I try to involve everyone in what is best for Roma.
“I treat Francesco like a real football player and frankly I am one of the few who still does. I choose him if he has a better chance of doing well than someone else.
“It seems to me as if some in the media want me to pick him regardless of form, which doesn’t seem fair to the others. Totti is a leader and a reference point for everyone, regardless of whether he plays or not.
“He has the charisma that comes from his history and quality. I’ve always seen him as a trequartista who sends others clear on goal, but if the team is able to support him adequately then he can also play as a False 9.
“Totti can do what he wants in future and any role he desires. We are both moving in the same direction, which is to get results for Roma.
“I care for Francesco, which is why I don’t go around telling him things that aren’t true.”