Roma director Tiago Pinto admits the Giallorossi expected more from Tammy Abraham but is confident the Englishman ‘will help the team’ and praises Andrea Belotti and Lorenzo Pellegrini for their sense of belonging.
Abraham has been dropped from Roma’s starting XI in the second leg of the Europa League Round of 16 against Real Sociedad. Andrea Belotti starts up front in Spain despite undergoing wrist surgery only five days ago after fracturing the third and fourth metacarpal of his right hand.
Abraham was also once again snubbed by England for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers, which will see the Three Lions face Italy next week.
“Abraham has scored seven goals, but strikers have many ways to help the team,” Pinto told Sky Sport Italia ahead of Thursday’s second leg in Spain.
“We expected and he expected different numbers, but this happens with strikers. If they score in two consecutive matches, it all changes. He helped us last season and he’s doing the same now, but we have two strong strikers and he has to push more. I am confident because he can help us.”
Like Belotti, Pellegrini also starts the game despite not being 100% fit. The Italy international was given 30 stitches after a clash of heads in the reverse fixture but plays tonight with a protective headband.
“These things strike me. I’ve seen Belotti and Pellegrini’s commitment, they wanted to return as soon as possible,” noted Pinto.
“After the surgery, Andrea immediately returned to Trigoria. I thank them for the sense of belonging they have shown. That’s what we want from the team. They are an example for everybody.”
Roma face Lazio in the derby della Capitale on Sunday, but Pinto ensures players are fully focused on their Europa League match.
“The European competition we won belongs to the past. I’ve learned a lesson from Rui Costa. A top team has no time to celebrate victories, get depressed after defeats or think about what’s coming next. We must be 100% focused on today’s game. We’ll face a tricky opponent who want to go ahead.”