Mert Cetin's first interview: Cengiz can help me settle

The Turkish defender, 22, completed his move to the Giallorossi on Friday afternoon – after a successful campaign in his homeland with Genclerbirligi.

The centre-back cannot wait to get stuck in to life in the Italian capital.

“I am very pleased and excited to be here and to be able to represent Roma,” Mert Cetin said.

“I am a young player and I know what it means to wear this shirt. It’s a feeling I can’t describe, I hope to be able to live up to the hopes of the club and the fans.”

He added: “Serie A is a great league for defenders, and has been for a long time. I am certain that I can improve here and, with this great club, will be able to do great things.”

Cetin becomes the second Turkish player in coach Paulo Fonseca’s squad, following in the footsteps of Cengiz Under – who joined the Giallorossi two years ago.

Cetin believes Cengiz’s presence will help him as he looks to settle in – but believes he can be a useful asset to his compatriot too.

“I met Cengiz a little while ago, he’s a spirited guy and being Turkish as well it means I won’t feel alone,” he said.

“I think that we will be able to help each other out the pitch and improve together.

“My main aim is to settle in here as quickly as possible, then hopefully to win some trophies.”

Asked to describe his style of play, the Turkey Under-21 international characterised himself as no-nonsense in his approach.

“When I am out on the pitch I’m a different person, my focus and my thoughts are just about the game,” he said.

“I’m a competitor when defending in the box, I feel like you can say I am a warrior. Sergio Ramos is definitely the player who has inspired me, I’ve always looked up to him.”