Sousa: Beating Roma would be huge for Viola

La Viola welcome Luciano Spalletti’s squad to the Stadio Artemio Franchi while sitting 15th in the embryonic Serie A table, having played a game less than everyone else after last weekend’s game against Genoa was abandoned due to bad weather.

Given that somewhat slow start to the campaign, Sousa believes beating the Giallorossi could kick-start his side’s season.

“Victories bring enthusiasm and confidence,” Sousa said. “There’s still a long way to go and winning certain games can give us the right push to reach the next level.

“If we manage to beat Roma convincingly, as we did at times last season, then that’ll be even better for our collective self-esteem.

“In order to score goals, we need to create chances and in [the Europa League against PAOK Salonika] we did create several good scoring opportunities. At times we got the last ball wrong. Our style of play means we can create chances both centrally and on the flanks, so we just need to keep working and the goals will come.”

Sousa is not underestimating the threat of Spalletti’s squad, however, noting that they have a squad capable of challenging for the title this season.

“Roma have the quality to win the Scudetto,” he noted. “It’s true Juve made some big investments, but the Giallorossi should quite rightly aim high.

“Francesco Totti is the kind of player every coach would love to have in his squad. Every team should have a symbol who recognises the value of the club and can communicate it to the rest of the group.

“As long as he feels able to help his teammates and enjoy his football, it’s only right that he continues."