Pellegrini: Top performance on a tough night

The midfielder scored the winning goal just before the hour-mark, but was quick to pay tribute to his teammates in the aftermath.

“We played very well today," Pellegrini said.

"I think it was a lot harder out there on the pitch than it might have seemed from the outside. They're an excellent side who play good football. They show no fear and they caused problems for us at times.

"We've taken a big step towards qualification today.”

Roma have a new-look midfield that seems to be improving now. Would you agree?

“I've said all along that getting to know each other is really important. Bryan [Cristante] and Steven [Nzonzi] are doing a great job. I'm happy for Bryan because I thought he was one of the best players on the park tonight. We're improving our understanding with every game and that's a big positive.”

Can you focus on climbing the league table now that you're almost through to the next round?

“We certainly need to get ourselves into a position that's more fitting for Roma. It's not a case of focusing more or less on the Champions League – we've never done that. We have to keep doing what we're doing. With time we're getting to know each other better and playing better as a result.”

You seem to have taken your game to another level. Is that down to your goal in the derby?

“I've never thought about that - I'm just doing my job. That goal did feel like a release. It was a unique feeling but I wouldn't say it was that goal that helped me; it's all the work I've put in since last year. I have to keep plugging away. I wasn't useless before and I'm no superstar now. You have to keep working hard so that you can perform well in every match.”