El Shaarawy says confidence is high ahead of Juventus meeting

The Champions League finalists come to the Stadio Olimpico for the final game of Matchday 36 looking to clinch the Serie A title with a positive result - while the Giallorossi know they must win to continue to apply pressure to Max Allegri's side and stay ahead of Napoli in the race for second.

And El Shaarawy, who could be in line to start the game in the absence of the injured Edin Dzeko, believes last week's 4-1 win over AC Milan has given Luciano Spalletti's squad a timely boost.

"Morale and confidence are a lot higher after the win at San Siro," El Shaarawy told Sky Sports Italia. "We needed it after the derby defeat.

"We're up for it and these matches prepare themselves to a certain extent. These are crucial matches, not only in terms of the league table but also so we can measure ourselves against the best side around at the moment."

How do you prepare to face what appears to be a flawless Juventus side?

"Every team has its weak spots. We'll prepare tactically to try and win and keep hold of second place."

How do you explain the change from the derby to the game at AC Milan?

"Every game is different. We created a lot against Lazio but then they scored with their first chance. We have to fix our occasional lapses in concentration like at Lyon or in the Coppa Italia against Lazio. We've always reacted really well to losses. We must stay on our toes but that won't be hard to do."

Where might Napoli have the edge over Roma down the stretch?

"We're one point ahead. They're an excellent team who play the best football in the country. However, based on what we've produced this season, qualifying for the Champions League automatically would be just rewards."

You came on and scored against AC Milan. Do you feel older and more mature?

"There are top players at big clubs and everyone has to take their chance to show what they can do. You have to be able to make an impact off the bench too. I haven't come on and scored on too many occasions which is why that was a big goal for me."