“We are ready and motivated – no alibi”

Paulo Fonseca spoke at a press conference on the eve of Napoli’s reception at the stadio Olimpico. Kick off this Sunday at 8:45 p.m. On behalf of the 28th day series A

Press conference published on Asroma.com – translated by AmoRoma.fr

What impact can the difference of course before the match between Roma and Napoli have? The Giallorossi only returned yesterday to Trigoria while the Napoli are cooler.

“We are ready for this game, we were able to manage some players. I don’t want an alibi. The team is motivated and I expect a good performance ».

Could this motivation come from being the last team still competing in European competitions?

“Yes, the team is doing well after qualifying. From now on, we no longer have to think of the Europa League but only of Napoli, of tomorrow’s match which is very important for us. What we have done in the Europa League is a source of pride, but we have to rethink the championship ».

Do Roma seem to you a more European team than the other Italians?

“For me, it’s a coincidence. As I said before, last season Inter reached the final of the Europa League ”.

“No operation for Smalling. We manage his situation day after day. Both will not be available tomorrow, but they are recovering well and will be training with the team soon ”.

The backbone of Kiev was represented by Cristante and Mayoral: change of strategy or confirmation tomorrow?

“To find out who will play tomorrow. We will have to wait another 24 hours ”.

The club have yet to decide whether you will be Roma coach next season. does this uncertainty weigh on you?

” No. Like always, I am only focused on the present. And the present is tomorrow ”.

Does Thursday’s game give you a more physically tired or more psychologically charged team?

“The victory against Shakhtar, a very difficult team, should motivate the team. We are ready for Naples ».

Difficult to get to this stage of the season without Veretout, Mkhitaryan and Smalling?

” As usual, I don’t have to think about the missing players but to those I have for this game. Then I would think of quickly recovering these players. I think they will be available after the break ”.

You face a team very determined to recover the ball high, strong in reversing the action and with formidable counter-attackers. Are you planning to strengthen your high ball exit?

“We have a strategy for every game, but we will never change our identity. We want to be a team that takes initiatives, an offensive team ”.

Is Cristante’s spirit of sacrifice a symbol of what you expect from the team in general?

« Cristante plays very well as a central defender and has also held other positions like other players when we needed them. This is the spirit we want in the team ”.

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