Cengiz: 2018 a positive year, I want to keep improving

The Giallorossi have three more games in 2018 - starting at Juventus Stadium on Saturday, as the side go to Turin to face the league leaders.

And Cengiz knows the team will have to be at their best to get something from the game.

“Juventus are clearly the best side in Serie A,” Cengiz told Roma TV.

“Whenever we play them we have to prepare very well. It will be a very tough game – we want to put in a good performance.

“We need to play with a real unity and team spirit – we have to fight as one to bring a positive result home.”

The Juventus game kicks off a busy festive period for the Giallorossi, who subsequently host Sassuolo on December 26 and then travel to face Parma on the 29th.

“Those two games we need to win, but right now we have to be completely focused on Juventus,” Cengiz added. “Only after that can I answer questions about other games.

“Certainly, to keep improving and to go into the winter break in the right shape then we need to win those matches too."

Speaking about his own form, the Turkey international admitted it had been a positive year for him – he grabbed his first goal for the Giallorossi in January, which seemed to open the floodgates as the youngster has become an increasingly crucial member of coach Eusebio Di Francesco’s plans over the following 12 months.

“I feel like a more important member of this team and I feel in good shape, in good spirits,” he said.

“If we look at the first few months of last season and then the first few months of this season, so far I’ve got five goals and a few assists – it’s positive, but I think with the help of my teammates I can do even better.

“If you look at 2017, my performances this year are much better. I hope that trend continues going forward and I keep on progressing.”