RANIERI: "I WANT MEN WHO KNOW HOW TO REACT TO ADVERSITY"
The Giallorossi's coach Claudio Ranieri spoke in the pre-match press conference on the eve of Roma-Fiorentina.
About the 7-1 loss in the Coppa Italia against Fiorentina: “Many of the seven goals conceded in the cup game came from long balls over the defence, which is something that Fiorentina are very good at regardless of who plays. We need to focus on not giving them the space to attack to do it again.”
Roma have conceded 62 goals this season: “I’m spending 25 hours a day thinking about how to help this team. It’s not easy but I’m putting everything I have into evaluating everything possible: personnel, playing systems and opponents.”
About a more important role at the club for Francesco Totti and the future of De Rossi: “De Rossi will think about that when he retires. Francesco has already taken on an important role here. He stopped playing 18 months ago and is being slowly introduced to the other side of things. He is a key presence for me and the team – then it’s up to the club to decide the best direction to go in.”
He was asked why the team isn’t able to stay compact and tight: “Obviously I want a compact, tight team – but it’s easier said than done. The team has been put together to press from the front, but we need to try to stay compact and avoid giving the opposition chances to hurt us. The fans have realised that the team needs them.
About the fans: The Curva Sud supported the team right to the end. I ask the fans to support us but I know the fans want to see a reaction from the team – a rebellion on the pitch that drags the people behind us.”
(Photo Getty Images)
