Shop
The Giallorossi forward struck twice at the Stadio Castellani as Luciano Spalletti's side racked up a sixth consecutive Serie A victory ahead of Friday's showdown with Paulo Sousa's side.
“This win gives us the morale boost we need to keep our winning run going,” El Shaarawy began. “I'm delighted with the way we played and with the fact I got two myself – it's my first brace for the club.”
You scored and the team got three points. You couldn't have asked for more...
“That's right. Scoring and then running over to the fans in the second half was a great feeling but the best thing of all is that we've won our sixth game in a row. We knew it was going to be hard against Empoli but we did well to fashion our chances and then take them.”
What was your game plan?
“The gaffer told us to keep hold of the ball, move it about and then get in behind them. We prepared for it really well and we stayed alert and on the ball the whole game. We're all pleased with the way we're working during the week. Now we need to carry on training well because that's the only way to ensure we're successful in future.”
Like Salah, you're good at helping out defensively...
“That's what Spalletti asks us to do – work hard and put in a shift for the team. And we're seeing the fruits of our labour. If we keep doing what the boss tells us hopefully the results will keep coming.”
That's four goals for you at Roma now. Do you feel you've proved a point?
“I think I have because I came here after six months at Monaco set on giving my all for this team. Before joining, I sensed the club really believed in me. I knew I couldn't mess up. I've made a good start but I have to stay focused and keep it up. I have to keep producing the goods and the goals.”
Where does this leave Roma in terms of the league table?
“It's a sixth win so it's great for morale, as I said. We're happy but we have a six-pointer coming up next against Fiorentina and we'll need to step up another level if we want to keep this run going. We just have to focus on one game at a time and keep doing what we're doing.”
Mauro Sandreani, a member of Italy coach Antonio Conte's backroom team, was in the stands at Empoli. Are the Euros on your mind?
“They are, yes, but I need to keep playing well for Roma and if possible keep scoring too, then we'll see. I came to Roma to give it everything I've got but also with the aim of going to the Euros.”
Imperium Partners
Centurion Partners
