Labate learning fast as Roma Women look to continue form against Verona

Labate, 19, has made nine appearances for the Giallorosse already this season and – after playing a part in each of the side’s two wins to start 2019, is hopeful that form can continue when Verona come to Stadio Tre Fontane on Saturday.

Roma lost the first meeting between the two sides 1-0 back in October, and will be looking for revenge this time out.

“We wanted to start the New Year in the right way,” Labate told Roma TV.

“We have started to find our feet, and we have started to get a better idea of the league and our ability and how we can pick up more points.

“The first few games in the season didn’t go so well, and then after that we began to realise our strength came from our team spirit and improved. So we wanted to start the second half of the season in the right way. It’s been going well so far and we want to keep going.”

On facing Verona, she added: “We are expecting a really tough game. They are a very well-drilled team, like us that’s perhaps their big strength. We need to play our game, because that’s our best chance to get all the three points. In the first meeting we wasted a lot of good chances, so we need to improve on that.”

Labate, who was playing her football in Rome before joining AS Roma in the summer, acknowledged that the chance to make the step up with the Giallorosse was too good to miss.

“I was very happy. Because finally we too could be part of a more ‘professional’ football environment,” she said.

“I was really excited to come here, because obviously we know Roma is a big club and had big plans for the women’s setup. So we were all very enthusiastic about the opportunity.

“My aims for this season are mainly to find my place in the squad. To play as well as I can and keep progressing, with Italy Under-23s as well, and achieve all the objectives we set at the start of the season.”

With Labate still learning the ropes in professional football she has the perfect example in front of her – Italy international and Roma captain, Elisa Bartoli.

“As a captain, Elisa is always trying to bring the group together,” Labate said. “She helps her teammates, helps others first.

For me personally she is an example – she gives me things to work on mentally, tactically and technically. She is a captain that is really a huge help for all of us.”