Fonseca discusses Udinese match: “El Shaarawy isn’t ready to play, Cristante could start in defence.”


Roma manager Paulo Fonseca faced the media early this afternoon to preview tomorrow’s league fixture against Udinese at the Stadio Olimpico.

The Giallorossi will host the Friulian side in the Italian capital to begin their first of a busy stretch of matches, which includes their two Europa League legs against Braga.


“The team trained well this week but Udinese have the fifth best defence in the league, so it won’t be easy,” the Portuguese technician stated.

“Udinese have been doing really well lately and they’re very organised with a strong manager. We have prepared well for this match but we will be facing a team that likes to sit deep and is strong on the counterattack.”

As for his team, Fonseca revealed that Stephan El Shaarawy still isn’t ready to play after marking his return to the club two weeks ago.

“Stephan hasn’t played in awhile so he’s still not in the most optimal condition to play, but we’re working to have him available to us as soon as possible,” he revealed.

“Pedro is ready to play but Kumbulla had a minor issue in training so I’m waiting to see what the doctors tell me, it’s possible that Cristante could play in defence tomorrow. Pau Lopez will remain the goalkeeper.”

“In attack,  you will see who I choose tomorrow but both Dzeko and Mayoral have trained well.”