Spalletti: Opener against Udinese far from simple

Luciano Spalletti believes Roma's opening league match against Udinese will not be as easy as some analysts have suggested after the Serie A 2016-17 draw that took place in Milan this evening.

"Many people forget that Udinese defeated Juventus on the first day of last season," said the Giallorossi head coach. "I know Udinese very well. They have a scouting network that brings all these young players into their squad who are willing, totally motivated, fresh and ready to prove their worth.”

"They will be a tough opponent to face, we saw that last year."

Spalletti then extended his gaze over the first few matches and stressed that, if tackled in the right manner, they could create a sense of excitement around team and club. "First of all, they are all big, tough games but if you take them at first sight, it's a start that can help us build up properly to the more difficult matches. This string of games allows us to work and develop, meaning we'll be more prepared against bigger sides.

"Building confidence and having good results behind you is fundamental, especially in an atmosphere like ours where the fans are very emotionally involved in the ups and downs of the team. If we begin with good results, they'll start getting behind us and this will help us get through the tough moments with more ease."

Quizzed on the trio of huge games at the beginning of December – Lazio, AC Milan and then Juventus – Spalletti called it a "burden" that the team must be able to negotiate.

"They will be three hard games, with a Champions League match possibly in there as well," he said. "These encounters could turn the table on its head, either in a good way or a bad way.

"The team must be able to cope with the burden of these three games. Nevertheless, we're able to plan ahead for these matches as opposed to the Champions League qualifying round which is a crucial one-off tie."

Finally, the Roma coach made a point of emphasising the importance of the initial phase of the season which sees his team playing in the two-legged qualification round for Europe's premier club competition alongside league fixtures.

"There was a lot of interest around this fixture list where the dates for league matches are confirmed, which is normal and correct. I also have to say that we are particularly interested in the draw on 5 August when we will find out our opponents for the Champions League qualifying round. Those two games combined with our league commitments will be an especially difficult period for us."