D’Urso: Training with the first team is the best way to learn

There's no better learning experience for a young footballer than going on a training camp with the first team – take Christian D’Urso's word for it.

The 18-year-old midfielder, who won the Primavera league with Roma U19s last season, is one of a number of youth players working with Luciano Spalletti and the senior squad in Pinzolo this week.

“I was with the first team for pre-season last year too and it really is the best way for a youngster learn,” D'Urso said. “When you train with the senior players, you pick up all sorts of things just by watching them.”

How's the training camp going this year?

“You can't not improve with a coach like [Luciano] Spalletti. Besides all the running, we're doing lots of really intensive work with the ball too. It's hard going.”

You got on the score sheet against AC Pinzolo. How did that feel?

“It was amazing – I felt so happy. It was a fantastic experience.”

Is there a first-team player you're learning more from than anyone else?

“I should start by saying that they're all phenomenal players but the one I'm most similar to is Kevin Strootman. I admire him as a person too, not just as a footballer. He leads by example but he also gives you loads of pointers on the pitch.”

You played on the wing for the U17s but now you operate in a central midfield role. Why's that?

“Alberto De Rossi moved me inside and found the perfect position for me. I'm really in my element there and I get to do more things too.”