El Shaarawy: We believe we can get second place

Stephan El Shaarawy is adamant that Roma can still snatch second place and qualify directly for the Champions League group stages.

“We definitely believe we can get second place,” the Italian international told Sky Sport Italia on Friday.

“We’re two points behind Napoli. They have a tough game against a good side in Torino, but first and foremost we need to focus on beating Chievo.”

How excited are you to see the Olimpico full on Sunday?

“It will be a special feeling. It’s important that the fans are close to us so let’s hope it’s a great game and we get the three points.”

Were you expecting such a good start to your Roma career?

“If you’d told me it would happen like it has I wouldn’t have believed you, but I knew I couldn’t afford to mess it up. I’ve worked hard for this. The coach has been really important - I feel that he has confidence in me. I hope to continue doing well, first with Roma and then at the Euros.”

Which has been your favourite goal for the Giallorossi so far?

“The backheel on my debut at the Olimpico. It gave us the lead and was an amazing feeling, especially because there was some scepticism around my arrival. That goal changed everything.”

Roma have the most prolific attack in Serie A. How does Luciano Spalletti encourage that?

“We work really hard and try to play football and create chances. The coach has really helped us to make the most of our attributes. We also have great strikers and midfield players who can find you in front of goal. We’ve done our bit, but the boss has been fundamental.”

How does it feel to see AC Milan struggling?

“It’s a shame to see it, but I’m sure that they’ll get back to being competitive in Italy and Europe soon. It will be a strange feeling to play at San Siro in another shirt, but we’ll try to play our game.”

Are you thinking about the Euros?

“Yes, it will be my first big competition and I want to be mentally and physically prepared for it. This is a decisive year in my career. We want to go far at the Euros.”

Would you have Daniele De Rossi on the plane for France 2016?

“As a team-mate I’d love to have him there. He’s working fantastically in training and performing well during matches.”