Three to Watch: Can Roma silence Milan's two Spanish creators?

In December, when these two sides last met, Roma claimed all three points in a hard-fought but ultimately deserved victory at the Stadio Olimpico. With Roma having won their last five away matches and scoring at least three times in their last four away from home, the odds will be in favour of Luciano Spalletti’s side.

Even though Milan have hit a rough patch of form, winning just once in their last five matches, they have an ace up their sleeves with Roma legend Vincenzo Montella on the bench.

With the former Scudetto winner’s tactical prowess at hand, our columnist believes these three players could force a change of tide for Milan’s fortune…

Gerard Deulofeu

After spending eight years in Barcelona’s La Masia academy, the attacking winger appeared few times for the first team. After accepting loan moves to Everton and Sevilla he eventually became a permanent player for the Toffees, but struggled to convince new manager Ronald Koeman of his value this term.

Since his late January move to Il Diavolo Deulofeu has made immediate impact, scoring two goals and creating three assists and becoming an instant point of reference for Montella’s team.

In just 14 appearances, he has created 33 scoring opportunities – complimented by his ability to force defenders into committing too early with his masterful dribbling, and key passes within the keeper’s box.

Just 23, the Spanish international’s career is still in its early stages – and he knows his time at Milan could be crucial in defining whether his career continues to greater heights or starts to plateau.

A new face on the pitch from the previous time these sides met, his control of the game could prove treacherous down Roma’s flanks.

Suso

Roughly the same age and size as his Spanish counterpart, the right-forward has been the primary creative outlet for his side all season.

With seven goals scored and nine assists created, this is Suso’s most impressive campaign yet. As well, he has done well to make space for himself in the opponent’s final third, taking three shots and completing two successful dribbles per match.

With a total of 56 scoring opportunities created for his teammates, the former Liverpool man has grown into one of the finest architects in Serie A.

Captain of the Spain side that competed in the 2013 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, Suso transitions quickly from midfield to attack – combining well with his teammates for short passes and counter-attacks down the touchline.

With a powerful shot and accurate finishing from tight angles, close marking will be imperative to keep Suso’s impact to a minimum.

Alessio Romagnoli

Pointed to as one of the next generation of great Italian defenders, the centre-back has been a sturdy shield in Milan’s otherwise haphazard defence.

In 25 appearances, the Roma youth product has made a goal and an assist each, on top of his defensive responsibilities.

He leads his team with six clearances per match, while he has won an impressive 2.5 aerial duels, which further demonstrate his protective abilities.

With an average of three successful long balls, Romagnoli has developed into a fine passer of the ball, who links the defence to the attack – an attribute and warning signal that could prove deadly for an opposing defence that presses too far forward.