De Rossi expects reaction from group against Lazio

After suffering a surprise loss against Palermo at Tre Fontane to end a solid recent run of form, the Under-19 side also fell to Atalanta on Saturday - meaning the coach wants a reaction from the group when they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia.

"I want to see the team like they were playing two weeks ago: creative, strong, rampant and aggressive, with everyone able to score goals and influence play," De Rossi said ahead of the game. “We have to get back to the standard that our players set.

"We've come off the back of two poor results: two matches in which we haven't played our usual game, apart from the second half in Bergamo when I saw they had the right attitude again. However, we were trailing at that point whereas we're used to performing in that way right from the off at 0-0.

"Now we're back at full strength and that's great to hear because it's only happened in three games so far. This is a huge advantage for everybody, including the guys who have had to constantly change playing style recently.

"This squad needs to train together and get used to each other's company."

What was the message to the lads after the Atalanta game?

"That with all the technical quality we have, we cannot afford to commit all those errors in possession. We set up with three quick and skilful forwards, who all have different attributes to one another. We weren't able to bring the ball up the pitch and keep it on the ground, which allowed the opponent to build confidence. The players coming back in should give us the chance to overcome the opposition's approach."

Is the derby added motivation to do well?

"I hope not because we shouldn't focus purely on this. The derby is only a chance to check how hard we've worked in the local area for the past ten years – the time you need to build a Primavera squad. I've always looked at it in this regard. This is the right mentality to convey to the lads, especially for when they get older.

"You cannot concentrate on one match alone, even if it's an emotional one. We need to get through this round because it will give us the opportunity to compete in the business end of a tournament we really care about."