Roma v Udinese: Three opposition players to watch

Luciano Spalletti's squad has been strengthened by the addition of several summer signings and will be eager to start their Serie A season with three points, but Udinese will be looking to disrupt Roma's homecoming. Wayne Girard picks out three players the Giallorossi will need to keep an eye on...

Rodrigo de Paul

The 22-year-old Argentine playmaker has found a new home in Udine, and will be somewhat of a surprise package for the Zebrette due to his unpredictable play and offensive abilities.

Last season he created a chance more often (every 32.6 minutes) than any teammate at Valencia before his mid-season loan to Racing Club. The left-winger is not afraid to take opponents on with his dribbling ability, and his clever runs take defenders out of position to free up space for more advanced teammates. His right foot is his most threatening, so Roma’s defence must marginalize his impact on the match by forcing de Paul onto his weaker foot and limiting his time on the ball.

Silvan Widmer

Adding to the squad's youthful core, the Swiss international has developed over the past three seasons in Udine to become an integral part of the defence. This transfer window has also seen him becomes one of the most sought-after right-backs, though the Friulani have so far managed to keep hold of him.

With an astute sense of positioning, the right wing-back is one of the hardest to beat in the league. Between clearances, interceptions, and tackles, Widmer averaged well over one per match - proving his capabilities across-the-board. He rarely hesitates to push forward, pairing his strength and pace, while his ball control is most surprising for the man measuring 1.82 metres tall.

It will surely be a testing, physical battle between him and Roma's left wing on Saturday evening.

Emmanuel Badu

The 25-year old defensive midfielder stands at only 1.72 metres tall, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in tenacity. Already having earned 62 caps for Ghana, Badu is the general in Udinese’s midfield.

As fast as he is tough, Badu’s speed makes him tough to overcome. On the off chance that an attacker does get by him, he can quickly get back into position to make a tackle. Although he is primarily a defensive asset for the Zebrette, Roma will have to be wary of his speed on the counter, as he can swiftly turn a tackle or interception into an attack for Udinese.