Zeman critical of Roma

Zdenek Zeman was critical of his Roma side after their 3-0 Coppa Italia victory over Atalanta, particularly red-carded Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.

Zdenek Zeman was critical of his Roma side after their 3-0 Coppa Italia victory over Atalanta, particularly red-carded Pablo Daniel Osvaldo.

“I am happy with the result and the way the team started the match, but after the break we allowed far too much of the initiative to Atalanta. It was not a good performance overall,” said the Coach.

Osvaldo was sent off for lashing out with an elbow on Carlos Matheu, leaving the Giallorossi with 10 men for the final 35 minutes.

“If someone gets sent off and leaves the team to play a man down, it really isn’t helpful. Osvaldo and Mattia Destro can’t play together as centre-forwards, but if one spreads out wide then they can do well.

“Alessio Romagnoli did well today and I’m sure he will go far. I hope he can help us throughout the season, as he has great quality. The fact he is only 17 is irrelevant.”

Daniele De Rossi made his first start since the Derby, as he was benched for Saturday’s 4-2 win over Fiorentina.

“De Rossi started well, then rather lost his way like the rest of the team. It was only to be expected considering he hasn’t played for a while.”