Kolarov: If I score in the derby, I'll celebrate

Kolarov, a former Lazio player, was the subject of some outrage from fans of both clubs when his return to the Italian capital was announced.

But the 31-year-old insists he sees no problem with the switch, and is ready and prepared to give everything he has for coach Eusebio Di Francesco.

Read everything Kolarov had to say in his first press conference as a Roma player...

How are you finding life with your team-mates and [Eusebio] Di Francesco?

"I've been given a very warm welcome both from the coach and my fellow players. I already knew some of them: Edin [Dzeko] and I spent four or five years as team-mates, while I've played against Daniele [De Rossi]. Things are going well at the moment, we're preparing well for the start of the season and we can't wait to get started."

How do you feel about this squad after three weeks of training and the same number of matches? How far along are you from a fitness and tactical perspective?

"The coach can answer that one. I've really settled well with the team over the last three weeks and I struck up an immediate rapport with the other players. I'm pleased to be here and we can't wait for the campaign to begin."

You played centre back at Manchester City too but yesterday you were man of the match at full-back. Is this the best you've felt at any stage of your career?

"Sure, I played a lot at centre back last season. I always try to improve. I'm 31 and I think I can offer a lot in both positions. I'm here to try and help the team to win trophies. I know Rome is a demanding place to play football but I try to set an example on and off the pitch. I feel experienced and ready for anything. I'm expecting a long season and I will be ready for anything."

Your signing has caused some unrest among Roma and Lazio fans. How can you resolve that? Would you celebrate scoring in the derby?

"You can't please everyone in life. My spell at Lazio was important for me, just as City were in my career. Now I'm a Roma player, however, and I'm delighted about that. I can't and I don't want to erase my past. I will give everything for Roma just as I've given 100% throughout my career. I'm delighted to be here and I will celebrate if I score in the derby."

What prompted you to join Roma, leaving a very ambitious team like City?

"The sporting director and I agreed terms within five minutes. I already knew the area and I was pleased when he called me and spoke to me about the chance to move here."

You know [Riyad] Mahrez well and you've played against him. What makes him so difficult to mark and what could he bring to this Roma side?

"Monchi is here, so why ask me? He's a top player and I'd be pleased to have him here but I don't make those decisions. If he joins, he'd be very welcome just like any quality player. He's tough to mark and he's got ability - there's no doubt about that."