Kolarov: Vital to get off to a good start

The Serbia international, a summer signing from Manchester City, rifled home from a free-kick shortly after the half-hour mark to settle the Giallorossi's Serie A opener with Atalanta, securing a much-needed three points in difficult surroundings.

“It was important to win the game," Kolarov said afterwards. "We were under pressure in the second half but we also had one or two chances ourselves to kill the game off.

"Atalanta are a very good side, but for us it was key to get off to a good start.”

With a good startm secured, Kolarov hopes the team will take additional confidence into the club's forthcoming games - especially if there are further arrivals between now and the end of the transfer window.

“We feel confident," he added. "Every team looks to strengthen each year. This is where we find ourselves right now – we hope that other players arrive.

"Even if they don’t, we’re a strong side as we are. We’ll keep pushing harder and go game by game.”