Zappacosta elated to put injury woe behind him

Entering on the hour-mark, the Italy international completed his recovery after suffering a serious knee injury at the start of the season - and he marked the occasion by helping Roma turn the game around and secure a 2-1 win.

“It was definitely an emotional feeling, it wasn’t easy to play after eight months out,” Zappacosta said.

“I am really pleased to be back out there, but more so to have got my first win with the club. I am pleased to have been able to help my teammates to pick up the three points.”

He added: “It’s a real shame to be playing in an empty stadium. It’s a bit of a shame for me, to be back playing but not to have the fans behind us too.

“It would have been even better that way, but we need to make sure we keeping giving everything for the fans – even if they aren’t at the stadium with us.”

How much room for improvement does this side have?

“There is a lot of room for improvement. We are lucky enough to be basically back to full strength now, with a group of players that are always focused and determined. And now, of course, with the five changes we all know we have to be ready at all times.”

How have preparations been for this final part of the season?

“We have prepared a bit like it was pre-season all over game. We are coming off such a long break, when we weren’t really able to train at home. Getting going again was tough but the staff have done brilliantly to manage everything. They have done a great job and hope things continue like this.”