Opinion: Analysing the three main talking points after Roma-Torino

Eusebio Di Francesco's side lost 2-1 at the Stadio Olimpico, despite once again creating more than 20 chances over the course of the 90 minutes.

1. Plenty of shots but nothing to show from it

Roma’s difficulty in converting the tremendous amount of chances they manufacture has been a hot topic of debate in recent weeks. And this trend unfortunately continued in their 2-1 loss to Torino in the Coppa Italia.

The struggle to convert opportunities can be put down to a multitude of reasons. To start with, the fact Eusebio Di Francesco has constantly rotated his side to keep his men as fresh as possible to deal with their many fixtures has probably been a factor.

While it has generally been effective, it understandably has also interrupted some of the continuity and relationship-building within the attackers, as they're regularly operating alongside different teammates. Attacking bonds always need time to build, and it takes longer when freshness also has to be factored in.

Moreover, adapting to a new manager's philosophy will always take time - for the players inherently need time to adhere to his methodology and structure. Although Di Francesco has mentioned on many occasions how happy he is with how his team are progressing, even he has noted the progress in some respects has been quicker than he anticipated – but also that the team are still not fully coordinated in their attacking movements.

For a perfect example of how time and patience can work wonders, look no further than Pep Guardiola's first season at Manchester City last term, and how his team endured some teething issues with his defined style. But fast forward 18 months and now they are nigh on unstoppable: on a 16-match winning streak in the Premier League and leading the division in goals scored (56), while playing some absolutely breathtaking football in the process.

Obviously a combination of bad luck and weak finishing - which has seen them hit the woodwork with regularity and squander a number of further good options - in combination with many of their recent opponents' keenness to sit deep and get 10 men behind the ball, has also affected matters.

With confidence starting to dissipate as a result, Roma's propensity to, at times, fire some low percentage crosses into the box - and miss key penalties - hasn't helped either.

All things considered, though, as the dedicated Di Francesco continues to work with his team and get them further assimilated to his regime in training, there's no reason to suggest the current mix of causes won’t soon be washed awy.

2. Schick gets his first goal for the club

One encouraging development from Wednesday’s defeat came with regards to forward Patrik Schick, who bagged his first goal for the Giallorossi.

Having had the early stages of his Roma career derailed by injury, the club's record signing has impressed of late with some encouraging outings – and his first goal, albeit late in the game, feels like a crucial boost for the youngster at an important time.

Whether operating as a striker or out wide, the Czech sensation has shown plenty of glimpses of his tremendous talent; demonstrating his technical qualities, athleticism, intelligent movement and overall dynamism. He duly provided some highlights against Torino too, where his physical and technical presence in the central role created regular problems.

But forwards need goals to continue their progression, and a first goal for a new club is always a critical step.

“He needed a goal,” Di Francesco said. “His movement was good both on his own and then when he was partnered by Dzeko.

"Patrik needs to keep performing and scoring regularly, but this goal will be a real confidence boost for him.”

3. Milinkovic-Savic produces another goalkeeping masterclass against Roma

While Vanja Milinkovic-Savic's gifted brother and Lazio star, Sergej, is usually taking all the headlines, Vanja's performance in keeping Roma at bay saw him be the toast of the family - for one night at least.

Displaying composure, a fine command of his area and excellent reflexes, he proved a hugely challenging obstacle for Roma to overcome. The tallest goalkeeper in the division – at an impressive 6’7” - definitely did a fine job of using every bit of his colossal frame to deny the home side.

It was all a bit like (recent) history repeated for Giallorossi fans, who had only just got over the frustration of Stefano Sorrentino’s heroic display in the 0-0 draw against Chievo. The 20-year-old Milinkovic-Savic’s 10 saves - punctuated by his stop to deny Edin Dzeko from the penalty spot – hinted at his growing talent.

Though he's currently Il Toro's second choice keeper, behind the experienced Salvatore Sirigu, and he's only played a couple of times so far this campaign, the future unquestionably looks bright for the once Manchester United prospect.

Roma were perhaps unfortunate to get an early taste of what his future might have in store.