Emerson: Milan are looking to bounce back - just like us

The Brazilian scored last time he faced the Rossoneri at the San Siro - in the final game of last season - and has enjoyed significant progress in his career ever since.

He admits it will be nice to go back to a ground that holds good memories for him, but the primary focus will be on grabbing the three points.

Interviewer: What do you remember of your first goal at San Siro when you were mobbed by your team-mates?

Emerson: "I remember the celebration with my team-mates and that was when I realised how much they love me. It's massive to know the team are behind you. That was nearly a year ago, I've grown up and I have a different status within the team, with greater responsibility. I'm delighted because I've always worked hard to make it this far and I want to keep working to get even better."

There are four games to play. Twelve crucial points up for grabs at the end of the season...

"Yes, we have four cup finals coming up and we must get as many points as possible."

What went wrong against Lazio?

"It was a very tough game. Maybe we played better in the first half and we did what the coach asked us to - keeping possession and playing football. Then we conceded a slightly unlucky goal just when we were on top. That's football, incidents change games. We didn't score from the chances we created and they took advantage and won the match."

How do you bounce back after a disappointment like that?

"It's a bit tricky because it's never easy to lose a derby be it for us, the fans or Roma as a whole. But we're Roma and we have to be able to come through tough spells like this one. We're second and we have an important, must-win match on Sunday."

What sort of game are you expecting at San Siro?

"It will be a tough match partly because they're off the back of a couple of bad results. AC Milan are struggling at the moment. They lost at home to Empoli and then drew at Crotone. They want to win like we do because they have the chance to change the situation they're in. We have to be wary."

It's very likely you'll be up against Suso who has scored seven and provided nine assists in the league this season. What's your take on him?

"He's a difficult player to mark and it was tough in the reverse fixture at the Stadio Olimpico. He can come left or right and he's very comfortable with the ball at his feet. He strikes the ball well and is capable of making and scoring goals. We have to be careful and stay tight because they have a lot of pace up front."

Napoli are now just one point behind you and they play before Roma this weekend. Do you think knowing the Azzurri's result before kick-off could affect you?

"We must stay calm and think about getting a result. We have to do our bit. We have a big game and we must focus on what we have to do, not on who's behind us in the table. If we play as we know how, second spot is ours."

Have you spoken to Monchi? What have you made of him?

"The new sporting director hasn't had time to speak to us yet but he has met us briefly. He came straight on the away trip to Pescara to watch the game even though he'd just arrived. That was a positive sign and it shows that he wants to be behind the team. I wish him all the best and hope he can do a great job at Roma."

You've also been called up to the Italian national team. How does that feel?

"It was a wonderful experience and I didn't expect it aged just 22. Italy are a huge footballing nation and I hope to return in the future."

What did Ventura say to you?

"The gaffer told me that I have to keep playing well at Roma. I have to earn fresh call-ups by performing at club level. That must always be my focus."