Roma v Crotone: Six newspapers pick their Man of the Match

In selecting their Man of the Match, Italian newspapers have reserved particular praise for Roma’s front-line. Let’s see who they singled out.

Corriere della Sera: Dzeko, El Shaarawy & Totti 7.5

Dzeko

“He’s made clear steps forward since last season and in this game showed decisiveness in front of goal. Scoring two as well as hitting the post will give him a boost in confidence.”

El Shaarawy

“After a good showing at Fiorentina, he was given a chance which he grabbed with both hands. He scored Roma’s first goal, set up Salah for the second and almost made it 3-0 with a wonderful bit of play.”

Francesco Totti

“Began in a central position, before dropping deeper, he linked up with Salah in particular. Came up with some trademark assists just before his birthday (he will turn 40 on Tuesday).”

Corriere dello Sport: Dzeko, El Shaarawy, Salah, Szczesny & Totti 7

Dzeko

“His head dropped in the first half after hitting the post. After the break he found some space to make it 3-0 with a chipped finish. The game then slowed before he bagged his second.”

El Shaarawy

“Made no mistake to net his first goal of the season. Also laid on an assist for Salah.”

Salah

“After some prodding from Spalletti, he produced the goods. He hit the back of the net to make things comfortable for the hosts before setting up Dzeko to score.”

Szczesny

“Saved a penalty on one of the few occasions he was called into action.”

Totti

“Despite being closely marshalled by Crisetig, he managed to provide the assist for the third goal and other bits of trademark play, including a no-look forward pass. He was applauded off the pitch, also by Spalletti on the side-lines.”

La Gazzetta dello Sport: Dzeko 8

“After criticism for a lack of goals, Dzeko responded with a brace. His all-round display was excellent: his movement and his play in the channels, as well as his effort which struck the post in the first half.”

Il Messaggero: Dzeko 8

“His two goals (and a shot which hit the post) provide welcome relief and show that a goal-scorer does not suddenly lose his touch.”

Il Tempo: Salah 7.5

“Showed a different attitude, with a performance full of pace in which he gave nothing to the opposition. Produced an assist for Dzeko.”

TuttoSport: Dzeko 7.5

“Hit the post after five minutes and was eventually rewarded for his hard work, scoring a double after the break.”