Florenzi: I tried to do my bit for the team

Two years to the day since he scored that goal against Barcelona, Alessandro Florenzi had another night to remember as he made his long-awaited Serie A comeback in the 3-nil win over Verona.

After 11 months out injured, this was another special night for you...

“I haven't given that goal much thought to be honest because I was focused on Verona and excited about getting back out there. I tried to do my bit for the team and I'm pleased with how it went."

What was it like coming back into the team after a rather difficult week?

“It was important to win because we're Roma and Roma must win every game they can. We have to forget about all the controversy when we're out there – the compliments too – and just concentrate on playing our game.”

Eusebio Di Francesco said you're almost like a new signing – one that can play all over the park…

“I've always said that where I play is not a problem for me. I'll try to give the boss a selection headache in lots of positions and prove I deserve my game time.”

Injuries are never easy to deal with but you handled yours really well. You look like you've been given a new lease of life…

“It all depends on how you face up to the injury. It wasn't easy – the second injury was a huge blow – but it taught me a lot about hard work and making sacrifices. Actually, I want to take this opportunity to wish Andrea Conti a speedy recovery. I'm sure he'll do just that because he's a top lad.”

Who are you most grateful to?

“My wife and daughter are the two people who helped me most. They were right there beside me every step of the way and I'll always be grateful to them. I can't wait to get home tonight and hug them again.”

Do you think Roma can stay in the mix at the top of the league?

“We're certainly capable of doing it but we have to prove it week in week out, playing every game as if it were a final. We're a close-knit group with lots of very good and versatile players.”

How desperate are you to earn an Italy recall?

“It's one of my aims but if you want to get called up to the national team you first have to do well for your club. Hopefully I will be involved again – it would make me feel very proud.”

What sort of game are you expecting against Qarabag in the Champions League?

“It's going to be difficult because it's a really tough place to go. We'll need to play to the best of our ability, but before then we have Benevento and Udinese to think about.”