De Rossi calls for focus as Primavera side finish campaign against Frosinone

De Rossi's side have already secured their place in the next phase of the competition, having topped the table with a game to spare, but the coach is eager for his side to treat the game like any other.

“We’re approaching the match exactly as we did the games against Latina and Lazio," De Rossi said. "We need to play at a high tempo and with good intensity so we can carry that through to the play-offs.”

How’s the team shaping up for the Frosinone match after the 8-0 win over Latina?

“Aside from the result, the main thing to take from the Latina match was the wonderful performance. The most important thing was the team’s approach to the game – they attacked from start to finish. It was no coincidence that we scored after 30 seconds. That goal was all about our attitude and our excellent mental, physical and tactical preparation.

"We’re in rude health going into the Frosinone match – it’s an important game, as they all are. We need to keep developing the lads’ mentality so that if they move up to the first team they’ll already have the right attitude for these kinds of matches.”

How much do you want to end the regular season with a win?

“Everyone needs to be focusing on winning matches and there’s no space for hedging our bets when it comes to the league table, especially at this age. It’s important the lads go out there to play a proper match, regardless of the opposition. Frosinone are a good side – one of the revelations of the season – and we need to be fully focused when kick-off time comes.”

You’re missing several players through injury or suspension, but the squad still looks strong…

“That’s nothing new. For one reason or another, we’ve virtually never had a full squad this season. But that’s why we have lots of players, all of whom are ready to play and all of whom are considered starters. Some need a little more time to grow as footballers than others, but they’re all available to play, whether that’s from the start, coming off the bench or getting a chance at the end of the season so they can develop. Whoever plays will do a great job.”

With top spot already secured, are your minds straying to the final phase?

“No, we’re approaching the match exactly as we did the games against Latina and Lazio. We need to play at a high tempo and with good intensity so we can carry that through to the play-offs.”