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Fonseca speaks ahead of Samp: “Pastore is ready. Dzeko? We’ll see”.

John Solano
I

Roma boss Paulo Fonseca spoke at his pre-match press conference today ahead of tomorrow’s league clash against Sampdoria. Here’s what he had to say:

What are the difficulties of tomorrow’s game?
Obviously I expect a difficult game. In the last 10 trips to Genova against Sampdoria, Roma has won only 2, meaning that it is always a complicated game, and there was also a change of manager — this usually leads to a positive reaction from the team. In addition, there is the question of bad weather. These are all circumstances that make it a difficult game but we will be prepared.

How are Perotti and Florenzi?
Perotti started training with the team last weekend, he has trained regularly and will travel with the team, the same goes for Florenzi, who has trained regularly and is available this week.

How is Dzeko? The surgeon who operated on him spoke of caution. Are you considering a symbolic call-up so he can be with the group?
Never (would I consider) a symbolic call-up, never. The player is either available and in full condition, or he does not come. Dzeko started training with the team for two days and did so quite well, obviously with a protective mask. His condition is not ideal, but we have one final session to see if we can count on him.

Pastore’s condition? Is he ready to play tomorrow?
He is ready to play, he has trained very well in the last two weeks. He is in good physical condition. He is motivated, he is growing day by day, and he is available to play if I consider him.

Are you satisfied with the outcome of the ban appeal? How will you handle the match from the stands?
For me, this is a completely closed question, there was a penalty and a disqualification. I have nothing else to add on this subject.

Who else can occupy the mediano role with Cristante and Veretout?
Pastore or Santon, if one of these two players should not be available. We have already tried both in this position.

Match Center

MatchDay 30
1 Apr 17:00
Lecce
LEC
Roma