Chris Smalling’s prolonged absence has been felt across the pitch.
The English defender – who has been sidelined for over three months with a knee injury – was Roma’s most reliable centreback last season, leading the team and providing the rest of Jose Mourinho’s men with a sense of calm and stability at the back.
His absence made itself felt on Sunday as Roma faced Fiorentina in a difficult, hard-fought 1-1 draw.
As reported by ForzaRoma.info, Fiorentina’s goal by Martinez Quarta was the fourth headed effort that Roma conceded throughout the last three months of Smalling’s absence.
Other headed efforts that resulted in goals scored against Roma were Zapata, Thorsby and Thauvin.
Roma are aware of this issue and are said to be planning the signing of an additional defender in January given that Smalling’s return to the pitch remains unclear.
