Florenzi: We’ll channel our anger at Udinese

“We were very angry after the Madrid match and we have to show that on the pitch against Udinese,” said Florenzi, who was speaking to Roma Radio on his 25th birthday. “That’s the only way we can bounce back. Winning against Real would have been like winning 40 league matches – it’s the quickest shortcut to being considered a big club, but starting from Udinese we’ll have to take the longer route.”

Rome-born Florenzi grew up in the Giallorossi youth academy and – after a year’s spell in Serie B with Crotone – has developed into a key member of the squad, racking up 159 appearances and 21 goals in all competitions since his promotion to the first team in 2012-13.

“Looking back at the last 25 years it’s been a positive journey so far, because of how I’ve reached this point and the dedication I’ve invested into my job. I think I’ve done pretty well but you can always do better and that’s what I want to do from this point forward.

“Roma is like a second home for me – it’s practically a family here, from the stewards to the café staff. I love it. I also want to say happy birthday to Elio Capradossi – it’s his birthday too.”

You’ve captained the side on a few occasions now. How does that feel?

“It’s a wonderful feeling. I’m third or fourth in line to the captaincy – I have two legends in Daniele [De Rossi] and Francesco [Totti] ahead of me, players that have given their lives for this shirt.”

You always seem to be getting questions about which is your best position…

“I’m used to it by now! I think I manage to contribute whatever position I’m playing in. All I want to do is focus on targeting my weaknesses and improving all the time.”

Tell us a bit about your relationship with your wife Ilenia.

“We’ve known each other ever since we were kids. I almost find it hard to speak about her – ours is so much more than a normal relationship. We’ve gone through a lot together and overcome so many things, such as when I was at Crotone, 600km away from her. We’ve shared everything.”

What’s it like going up against players like Neymar, Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo?

“Playing guys like that and testing yourself against them makes you realise just how good they are and how much you can still improve in football. I always learn something from all my opponents – I try to steal things by watching them. They’re great players but we’ve been able to show our quality too.”

What’s the ugliest goal you’ve ever scored?

“The one against Bologna in the 2013-14 season. It was a rebound from a Totti free-kick.”

What’s the story behind your moustache celebration?

“It’s dedicated to my father, who’s a fantastic person. He and my mother made me what I am today.”

Why did you choose the No.24 shirt?

“It’s the day I married my wife.”

How important is the national team to you?

“It’s very important to me. As well as defending the Roma colours we have to do the same for Italy. Despite all its issues, football can still bring people together.”

Crotone are going well in Serie B aren’t they?

“Yes, I’ve spoken to the president and congratulated him on their marvellous season so far.”