Kevin Strootman was “only happy with the result” and not Roma’s performance in a 1-0 victory over Milan.
Wojciech Szczesny parried an early M’Baye Niang penalty before Radja Nainggolan hammered in the winner.
“This game was very important. The three points in the derby would’ve been useless if we didn’t win today as well,” the midfielder told Mediaset Premium.
Kevin Strootman was “only happy with the result” and not Roma’s performance in a 1-0 victory over Milan.
Wojciech Szczesny parried an early M’Baye Niang penalty before Radja Nainggolan hammered in the winner.
“This game was very important. The three points in the derby would’ve been useless if we didn’t win today as well,” the midfielder told Mediaset Premium.
“We did not play well and fortunately Milan failed to convert a penalty, then Nainggolan scored a great goal. The only thing I’m happy with is the result.
“It’s true we fought hard and against the big clubs you need to focus on just taking the points home, so that’s what we did.”
Strootman was originally ruled out by a two-match ban following the Derby della Capitale controversy, but it was revoked on appeal.
“Of course I was scared, because I didn’t know if the appeal would be accepted. I think the right decision was ultimately made.”
He’ll also be available for this weekend’s showdown with Serie A leaders Juventus in Turin.
“I wanted to help the team, as always, and am happy for the victory. From tomorrow we’ll start to think about Juventus. It’ll be difficult, because they often win at home.
“We can’t talk about competing with Juventus for the Scudetto, we have to prove it on the pitch.”
It’ll be a reunion with former Roma midfielder Miralem Pjanic.
“He’s a friend and remains a friend. This week I was asked about Pjanic and I said ‘Who?’ then went on to praise him as a great player, but the media only published the first bit. I know you’re sneaky.”