Di Francesco: We weren't always incisive but stayed patient

Read what coach Eusebio Di Francesco had to say in the wake of Sunday's 2-0 win over Crotone.

The Giallorossi had goals either side of half-time from Stephan El Shaarawy and Radja Nainggolan to thank for the victory, making it four wins in a row in all competitions for the team.

Was that win indicative of a mature side?

“It’s perhaps not been the case in every game we’ve played, but we’ve shown that the team is growing. We had a great first half, due to our decision-making: we played well and were patient, because they were compact and sat deep. We kept hold of the ball and eventually got what we needed with a lovely move, finished off by Stephan El Shaarawy. In the second half we made things difficult for ourselves. The pitch didn’t help, with the wind in particular, but my ball-players were not incisive enough.

“We need more consistency. There are times in the game when there’s no need to force the ball across the pitch, particularly when you can get the ball forward. Against certain sides, you need to stay patient. We did that today and, overall, the team did what I asked of them.”

Why the dips in concentration?

“There are so many aspects to consider. When you try and keep the ball on the ground, you have to take some risks. Still, some of the mistakes we made were senseless, but Alisson did well to guard the goal. Sometimes we allowed Crotone to feel too secure.”

How do you rate yet another good performance from Alisson?

“I’m glad to have him – he’s a great goalkeeper. He was allowed to rest against Shakhtar but today we needed him to make some saves otherwise he’d have got bored!"

When this side is mentally free, they seem capable of anything. Perhaps sometimes you let the occasion get to you?

“That’s where I need to do my job well. The players have to play with confidence, work as a team and enjoy it. That is so important for implementing what we believe in. Otherwise it becomes a struggle against every team.”

Stephan El Shaarawy was back amongst the goals. How do you think he did out there?

“I’m happy that he got back on the score-sheet and was decisive. This morning, I told him that these sorts of displays will get him back in contention for the national team.”