Moreno's first interview: This is a wonderful challenge for me

Hector Moreno is confident he is ready for the "big challenge" that awaits him after becoming a Roma player.

The Mexico international arrived in the Italian capital on Saturday morning, ready to join up with his new teammates ahead of the club's pre-season tour of the United States.

Moreno is aware the move to the Giallorossi represents a significant step in his career - but believes he has the experience and skills to be a big success.

Welcome to Roma, Hector. First of all, what does it feel like to be a Roma player?

Moreno: “It's a fantastic feeling. It's a big challenge and a wonderful opportunity for me. I'm very excited and I can't wait to get stuck into this new challenge.”

Can you describe yourself as a defender?

“I'm a defender who likes to carry the ball forward. You have to make sure you're always ready to defend when needed but I think my game will improve a lot here because I'll have to be aggressive when defending.

"I don't really like talking about myself – people know what I'm about by now anyway. I think the main thing is I like to carry the ball out of defence and I believe I'm good at building play from the back.”

I could add that you weigh in with a fair few goals too...

“Yes, I've been able to score lots in recent years and hopefully that will continue. But as I often say, it's more important for me to keep a clean sheet than score a goal. If I'm able to score and help my keeper not concede too, then so much the better!”

Is this the move that will help you really establish yourself on the European stage?

“I hope so. I've been here for nearly 10 years and I've played for some great teams and learnt loads. Joining Roma is a big step forward and means playing at higher level than I have been till now. I've worked very hard to get where I am today and I hope to live up to the expectations Roma have of me.”

As Mexico captain, what do you think you can convey to your new team-mates?

“I think I can convey the importance of hard work. My main job within the team is to help my team-mates play to the best of their ability. They're all great players but if I can help each of them, be they defenders, midfielders and forwards, to improve even just a little then I'll be happy. I think my international experience can come in handy in that respect.”

Have you set yourself any specific targets for the season?

“My main target on a personal level is to settle into this great club as quickly as possible, to adjust to life in the city and just enjoy my football. As a team, our aim is obviously to challenge for the Scudetto. I realise the club want to fight for the title and need to fight for the title and I'm here to help them do that.”

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Finally, do you have a message for the fans?

“I know they're very passionate. You can see that every time Roma play and [Francesco] Totti's last match was something else. That sort of thing really makes a difference and I'm happy to be able to play in front of our fans at the Stadio Olimpico. I hope they'll always be behind us because it's much easier to achieve our targets if we all stick together."