Kevin Strootman admits Roma always feel more confident whenever Francesco Totti is on the pitch.
The Giallorossi captain celebrated his 40th birthday earlier in the week and claimed three assists in a sparkling display during Thursday night’s Europa League win over Astra Giurgiu.
Speaking to Sky, 26-year-old Strootman added that despite his advancing years, Totti still appears to be in prime condition.
Kevin Strootman admits Roma always feel more confident whenever Francesco Totti is on the pitch.
The Giallorossi captain celebrated his 40th birthday earlier in the week and claimed three assists in a sparkling display during Thursday night’s Europa League win over Astra Giurgiu.
Speaking to Sky, 26-year-old Strootman added that despite his advancing years, Totti still appears to be in prime condition.
“I hope that I don’t retire before Totti, he almost seems like my age when he goes onto the pitch,” the Dutchman commented. “When he is there, we all feel more confident.”
The midfielder then looked ahead to this weekend’s crucial match with Inter.
“It is an important match for us and for them. Inter are a strong team, they beat Juventus but then dropped points at home. A little bit like us.
“We have lost eight points away from home in three matches and that isn’t possible for Roma, it’s not good enough.
“It will be a great game on Sunday and we need to work well to be ready.”
Finally, Strootman reserved words of praise for compatriot Frank De Boer, though he admits to not knowing the Inter boss personally.
“I don’t know him personally but he is a great Coach. In Holland he won four titles in five years with Ajax.
“Unfortunately I have lost a lot of matches against him, he works well with young players and now in Italy he needs time.
“He always prepares the team well, look at the match with Juventus.”