Manolas: We still have two targets - we have to keep believing

The first meeting between the two sides, at the Stadio Carlo Castellani, did not exactly go to plan for the Giallorossi - as they were hold to a 0-0 draw despite peppering the opposition goal with shots.

Manolas wants a measure of revenge in the return fixture at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday.

"We're on good form, on the back of three straight victories," Manolas told Sky Sports Italia. "It's a must-win game for us. They don't play bad football but they're down near the bottom. We must therefore focus and win the match."

What do you remember from the draw in the reverse fixture?

"I've got horrible memories. We drew and I also broke my nose."

It's Napoli v Juve on Sunday. Who are you going to support?

"I don't know. I won't support either of them. It will be a great match between two top sides and we'll see who comes out on top and gets a result."

Can Roma still win a trophy this season?

"Let's hope so. We have to keep believing. We still have two targets and they're both tough. We are 2-0 down from the first leg against Lazio and we're eight points behind Juve. As I've said, in spite of that we must keep believing and grafting."

Do you believe you can turn the derby cup tie around?

"We saw against Lyon that we had to score twice and we deserved to go through at the Olimpico but if the ball won't find the back of the net... Either way, if we can reproduce our performance against Lyon I'll be very confident about our prospects of completing the comeback."

There will be a bigger crowd after the barriers were removed. How much have you missed the supporters?

"Sure, I'm delighted. We've really missed our fans. I've read recently that a lot of people will be back and that is a crucial boost for us in our efforts to complete the comeback."

Do you feel strong ties to the club?

"Of course. The club have always backed me and the supporters in particular have always encouraged me. I'll always be grateful to them and I promise I'll always give 110% for this side."

It's claimed you said that '[Radja] Nainggolan deserves to play for a big club'. Does that mean Roma aren't a big club?

"I've never said that Roma aren't a big club. I wouldn't have joined if they weren't. Roma are a massive club. I've never said that Radja should leave Roma. I simply said that he's world class and could play for anyone but far be it from me to suggest where he should go. As I've said, Roma are a big club. If he wants to stay, he will, it's up to him."

What has [Luciano] Spalletti taught you?

"He's taught me to always believe you can win because he's someone who always wants to."

Does a three-man defence give the team greater balance? What changes for you when you operate in a back four?

"I prefer a back four - that's where I've played best. Ultimately the coach picks the formation and I also have to adapt to a back three but personally I prefer four in defence."