Shop
The Giallorossi have faced some criticism in recent weeks for their goalscoring record this season, with the issue coming into sharper focus after last weekend's frustrating 0-0 draw with Chievo Verona.
And, while Di Francesco insists the issue has been overstated, the coach has had his players working on different exercises in training to change their scoring fortunes.
“I have always said that you can always talk about different things, show all sorts of things on television or on a blackboard, but you have to work on aspects in a determined fashion – so we have worked on a number of drills to stimulate the players and encourage them to look for goal and to finish moves," Di Francesco told reporters.
"I’m happy with what we have done so far. If people think the squad is a bit timid in front of goal or not clinical enough, well in this respect we can only respond with what we do on the pitch – starting tomorrow, trying to bring home the three points.
"Although, having said that, it is always great to see a zero in the ‘goals conceded’ column and this is something we definitely must try to maintain.”
Di Francesco shot down suggestions that he would base some of his team selections on the upcoming fixture list, with a Coppa Italia tie with Torino on Wednesday followed by a crucial Serie A meeting against Juventus on Saturday.
“It would be a big mistake to start thinking about the Juventus game now," he said. "We must be ready to play from the first minute tomorrow. I am looking at everything but I’m not planning around other matches. [Kevin] Strootman trained again yesterday for the first time, but there are other things I have to evaluate too."
He added: “Kolarov could do with a rest, it’s true. Emerson Palmieri has improved a lot, he is still missing something but that is to be expected. He needs to start a few games.
"His moment has arrived, I don’t know if it will be tomorrow but against Torino he will probably start. As I said, Kolarov could do with a rest."
Imperium Partners
Centurion Partners
