Kevin Strootman insists he never wanted to leave Roma and assures there is more to come from him this season.
Speaking alongside Coach Eusebio Di Francesco at a Press conference for Roma’s Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid, Strootman also expressed his delight at representing the Giallorossi in Europe’s elite club competition again.
“Playing in the Champions League is important,” began the midfielder.
Kevin Strootman insists he never wanted to leave Roma and assures there is more to come from him this season.
Speaking alongside Coach Eusebio Di Francesco at a Press conference for Roma’s Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid, Strootman also expressed his delight at representing the Giallorossi in Europe’s elite club competition again.
“Playing in the Champions League is important,” began the midfielder.
“We fought hard to finish second and play. The defeat to Porto was a heavy blow for us, and last year we didn’t start the season well because of it.
“We can play in the Champions League against great teams, for us it’s great.
“Can a midfield of Strootman, Nainggolan, De Rossi, Gonalons and Pellegrini make a difference? You forgot Gerson…
“Everyone says we have a strong midfield, but that’s what we always have to do. De Rossi has played very well in Europe and at the World Cup. He has so much experience.
“Radja and I have a little less, but we must show that we’re strong, the Coach always puts out the best team possible.
“We’re also counting on the whole team, not just the midfielders. I also have to show [my strength]. I haven’t always played well.
“We have the names, but it’s not just a matter of names, we must always show our strength.
“Back to my best? This is a difficult question, I hope you can answer it for me tomorrow after the game, telling me that you saw ‘the real Strootman’.
“I was out for two years, maybe I changed something in my game during that time. Two years is a long time.
“I certainly have to do more, and I have to be careful. I feel good physically. Last season, I played more than 50 games.
“The only thing I still lack is this: when I’m tired, I make mistakes too easily. I need to improve on this.
“Thought about leaving Roma? The market has just closed… Two months ago, I signed on for five years, I’ve never thought about leaving Roma.
“Stronger or weaker than last season? It’s hard to say, we’ve only played two games. Some important players left, but others came in.
“It can be answered in a few months. We have so much confidence right now, but we have to show it on the pitch.”