Rudiger: We're on form for the run-in

Antonio Rudiger is in no doubt: Roma are on form and ready to take on a run-in which is far from easy.

The Giallorossi have six games remaining in the current campaign - starting with Monday night's visit to Pescara. They are looking to close the gap with league leaders, while fending off Napoli in the race for second place.

"Juve and Napoli are in good form," said the German defender. "We drew last week [against Atalanta] but we’re in good shape like our rivals. That's why it will be a tough end to the campaign."

Despite some regrets over Roma's Coppa Italia and Europa League exits, there's no time to get hung up on the past.

"Yes, of course it’s a big disappointment because Lazio made the final and Lyon made the semis," he added. "It's disappointing but we must focus in the last month because we could lose a lot.

"The team is looking good and, as I've said, we need to be focused in the last month of the season because we could lose a lot."

Do you think this group of players is ready to start winning trophies?

"We have a good side and the team spirit is good too. At the end of the day, something is missing and if we want to make a big step forward, we must stop dropping points."

Where's your preferred position?

"I'm a centre back. I've played at left- and right-back but my position is in the middle. I’d prefer to play in the centre going forward."

Are you familiar with Zdenek Zeman's brand of football?

"Of course and Pescara did well in the second half of the reverse fixture too. They're trying their best and they have nothing to lose against a big team like Roma. We must focus."

What does your future hold?

"They write a lot in Italy. They said before I got injured that I’d move to Chelsea but I’m still at Roma. They can say what they want, I’m focused on Roma and, as I’ve always said, I’m happy here."