Strootman: It was vital we built on the derby win

Strootman was initially set to miss the game at the Stadio Olimpico after being banned for events during last weekend's derby victory over Lazio, but that decision was reversed on Friday - and the midfielder responded with another strong performance as the Giallorossi secured a 1-0 win.

Roma are now alone in second in Serie A, four points behind Juventus - who they face in Turin next weekend.

“It was really important to win today," Strootman said. "The three points we got in the derby would have meant nothing if we hadn't won this one.

"We didn't play particularly well tonight and we created few chances. Luckily they missed a penalty – [Wojciech] Szczesny did well there – and then Radja [Nainggolan] scored a cracker.”

Did this game feel a bit different as you were initially suspended?

“No, it changed nothing for me. I was glad to be able to play this match and that's all I was thinking about. I'm just pleased with the three points – it makes no difference whether it was me playing or someone else.”

You go head to head with Juve on Saturday. Are you their main rivals for the Scudetto?

“They've won five titles in a row, they're winning games with ease and they were excellent against Torino on Sunday. We'll start thinking about them tomorrow. It's going to be tough because they win nearly all their home games. It'll be a great match.”

Do you really believe you can challenge for the title?

“We have to let our football do the talking. We did that today against Milan – who are a great team – and we have to do that again against Juventus on Saturday. Afterwards we'll be able to say whether or not we can challenge for the title.”

Honestly though, did you fear you might not be able to play in this match?

“Of course I did, on Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday I was delighted when I knew I could play and I'm delighted now that we've played it.”