Jonathan Silva: Happy to join such a big club

“Roma contacted me a few days ago – I wasn’t expecting it but there was no doubt in my mind,” said the Argentine full-back. “I’ll be able to learn from [Aleksandar] Kolarov and all the players in this team.

"I was very surprised because this is a massive club, but I’m delighted to be here. I’ve not spoken with the coach yet, but I know we’ll have the chance to when the dust has settled.”

What kind of player are you?

“First of all I want to say thank you to everyone for the welcome I’ve been given. I want to try and integrate and help the team as quickly as possible. My attributes are well known – that’s why the club chose to sign me. You might have seen some of the games I’ve played during my career. I’m tactically disciplined, I’m good at marking and I attack the space without the ball. I also look to get as many crosses in as I can. The main duty in my position is to defend and get forward when I can. I’m 23, I have my whole career ahead of me and I need to work hard every day to try to improve.”

Do you look up to any players in particular?

“I don’t focus on one specific player. I look at all players who play in my position and I try to learn from them.”

What did you make of the Italian brand of football when you played Juventus earlier in the season?

“The Italian league is of a very high standard. You need to be 100% focused, make sure your concentration levels are high and take responsibility when you play.”

How is your recovery from injury progressing?

“Right now I feel good. I was working hard in Portugal and I’ll continue to focus on completing my rehabilitation here. I want to link up with the rest of the squad as quickly as possible. It’s not yet possible to give an estimation of when I’ll be back in action.”

Did you speak to Alberto Aquilani about Roma?

“We’re not in contact anymore, but he spoke very highly of Italian football when we played together at Sporting.”

Have you met Francesco Totti yet?

“I was lucky enough to meet him yesterday. Everyone knows what Totti represents to Roma and I can’t really believe I’m going to be working so closely with him. I’m more used to seeing him on the PlayStation!”