Roma manager Claudio Ranieri spoke today ahead of this weekend’s match against Sampdoria. These are his words:
What are the conditions of the injured players such as Santon, Perotti, El Shaarawy, Pastore and Florenzi?
Santon will have exams today but I’m afraid it’s something major. He’s indestructible so him having to come off shows it might be a serious injury. Perotti’s issue isn’t serious, but he won’t be available tomorrow. El Shaarawy is fit. Pastore is still working on his fitness. Florenzi will be back with the group next week.
What are the positive factors after Fiorentina?
I understand that a point may seem insufficient, but given the situation, it was an important point after a good performance. It makes the lads understand that they are good and physically that they’re capable. Unfortunately, it’s usually in the mind that makes you think negatively. To have come back twice when down a goal means they’re improving mentally and that pleases me.
Schick is a former of Sampdoria player and exploded there in the Marassi. Are these extra motivations that surely will have an element that the Mister is going to consider?
Certainly, these are important considerations that every manager takes into consideration, so I will examine this factor too.
Is De Rossi ready to play 90 minutes?
We’ll see who we have available amongst all those who have recovered but I don’t think he has 90 in his legs.
Ünder?
He is another who is working very well, but he certainly doesn’t have 90 minutes in him. I will evaluate the 11 starters tonight and tomorrow morning.
A lot was made of Zaniolo’s words after the match.
As for Nicolò’s statements at the end of the game, it is normal that the boy, he had finished the interview, they asked him another question and he said “Yes, we will see.” Zaniolo wants to stay, and Roma want to keep him. Let’s not hear anything more about this.
Will Mirante play?
Mirante played well against Fiorentina and I think I’ll continue with him. I wanted to give Olsen a bit of a rest but he’s a goalkeeper I rate highly.
Does the team believe in fourth place or does the fear of continuing to make mistakes prevail?
I believe that the match against Fiorentina gave the team a good boost of confidence and awareness. It is logical that I want to see the confirmation now in Genoa against Sampdoria. It will be an important match just like the one against Fiorentina.
