De Rossi savours big win in front of packed house

Afterwards, the midfielder spoke to reporters about the contest.

That was a crucial win, for many reasons...

“Yes. Above all for our place in the league, after Napoli’s victory today. It was a worry ahead of the challenge of the season. But we approached it well. We went down a goal early on and for them a draw would have been enough. We played well, with character, good organisation and willingness to give everything. It was a great game, a great evening.”

There was a fantastic atmosphere at the Olimpico tonight. It’s like we’re back to seeing this season for what it has been: a great one.

“What we get from the crowd changes all the time, and tonight we had Juventus come here. I don’t want to cast a downer on things but I’d love to go back to the 1980s, when there was always an atmosphere like this, even for Roma v Ascoli, Roma v Juve, Roma v Milan. It’d be great to bring that back. We have to do our bit, but we’re almost always doing so.”

During the week a lot was said, about things other than second place in the league. Today was indication that the team is here.

“For some time, there’s been talk about things other than our season. Now it’s absolutely key to win our next two games. Previously we only spoke about the team and our matches. We felt support today. It’s not that we win because of them or have lost at times because of them, but seeing a full stadium like this makes you work harder.”

We saw a big hug between yourself and Gianluigi Buffon. What did you say to each other?

“That I always score funny goals. There’s a great rivalry between these two teams but if you like a person, that doesn’t change, even during these 90 minutes. We might kick each other but among them are some of my dearest friends in this sport.”

Can you tell us anything regarding your future?

“Today, it’s just the result that matters. I couldn’t be happier, about this and my career. The only thing to look ahead to is the work we’ll do ahead of the Chievo match. To win today and drop points in Verona would be terrible.”