Alberto De Rossi: Today was a big step forward

Speaking after the Group E Matchday 4 match, the Giallorossi boss lauded the attitude displayed by his side who never stopped looking to extend their lead even after going 5-1 up.

“It would have been good to distribute [the goals] more evenly among our previous matches even though I was quite satisfied with the number of chances we created in those games as that showed we were a dangerous side,” revealed De Rossi. “I wasn’t happy with the results as they have left us in the balance in this competition and it would be a real shame if we didn’t qualify for the next round. With this win we’ve taken a big step forward.”

You weren’t happy with the first-half performance in Germany, but were 3-0 up come half-time today...

“The team is improving and getting to grips with the 4-3-1-2 formation. All of the players are putting the running in, our mental toughness is increasing and you can really see the determination to win the ball back when we lose it.”

Roma never stopped attacking today...

“That’s what we want. You can’t second-guess the result in football and we think this is an important part of the guys’ development – to be aggressive at all times and to look for goal in an organised, balanced way.”

The group has a better look to it now but you have to travel to Barcelona next. How do you view that clash?

“It’s going to be very tricky to go and play there but we’ve shown we can play against anyone. Roma Primavera are a strong team and if we are 100% focused we can achieve any result. We’re aware Barcelona are a good side but we caused them problems at our place.”