Bruno Peres: Things have improved since I changed my attitude

The game at the Stadio Olimpico, the third match in this season's group stage, gets underway at 18:55 CET.

Was it hard for you to get going again after testing positive for Covid-19, or did you find you were back up to speed almost immediately?

“It was a little bit difficult for me, because I rejoined the group after pre-season. Now I’m getting up to the level they are all at, I’m able to run as hard as my teammates. And that’s really important for me.”

You were important in turning the game around against Young Boys a few weeks ago. What do you think you still have to offer?

“Every game is important, you need to have the right attitude – you need to always be 100% focused. Every game is crucial for us, so I try to help my teammates, stay focused for 90 minutes and make a difference when it counts.”

Not long ago you were struggling at a second division side in Brazil – then at Roma you became the starter almost straight away. How did that happen?

“I changed the way I approached things – my attitude away from the pitch. And I think you can see the difference in my approach now. Now I have the attitude of a professional. And that’s really helping me. I’m delighted to be playing well, to be helping my team and my teammates. I’ll try to give my best in every game.”

Your contract expires at the end of the season – are you thinking about your future already? Would you like to sign a new contract with Roma?

“Right now my thoughts are focused on continuing to do well for Roma – that’s the key thing. But, of course, earning a new contract is another motivation. I’m working hard, I’m trying to do everything well – because that’s what I want. But I want to earn it. If I do what I need to out on the pitch, then things will fall into place off it as well. I’m very confident about the future.”

Do you feel more comfortable in a three-man defence or a four-man backline? What’s the difference, in your opinion?

“When we play with three at the back, it means I can stay further forward and do what I can to use my attacking quality too. With four I need to defend more, I need to read the situation and pick and choose the best moments to push forward. But for me it’s not a significant difference, I’m happy to play in both systems.”