Fonseca: We need to do better with some of the goals we concede

Here's what Paulo Fonseca had to say after Saturday's 2-2 draw with Sassuolo...

Giacomo Raspadori's late equaliser ultimately cancelled out goals from Lorenzo Pellegrini and Bruno Peres, as the hosts twice fought back to draw at the Mapei Stadium.

What is it that this Roma side was lacking today?

“Looking at it in terms of tactics, we did okay. We played with a 4-4-2. It was an open game, with chances for both sides. We did not get off to the best of starts, but after that it was an even game. Sassuolo are a side that always want to take the initiative. But we created a few different chances to score.

"We went ahead again and I didn’t think Sassuolo would get that second equaliser – but I have to admit that they probably deserved it. Sometimes that happens.”

Is that your top four hopes finished now?

“No. Now we need to turn our attention to the Europa League, but we will keep on fighting in the league.”

Will you need a different sort of approach from the side in Amsterdam on Thursday?

“No. I think the team had a good attitude today.”

What were you saying to the referee after the game?

“I told the referee that he had a good game. It’s hard for us to accept what happened in injury time [when the referee blew the final whistle before Roma could take an attacking free-kick]. But overall the referee had a good game.”

Did you make some decisions today with the Europa League in mind? Will Chris Smalling be back for the Ajax game?

“As far as things go with Smalling, let’s see how he gets on this week. Chris is recovering well, I am hopeful of having him back for Thursday.

"Today I chose the best side for this game. We have a lot of different issues, but I wasn’t thinking about Ajax.”

Roma have conceded twice in each of their last three games. What’s the issue?

“It’s true, today we conceded twice as well. I have to say that, as far as Sassuolo’s second goal is concerned, they deserved it. But it is clear that we can’t afford to concede goals like this, especially in games we are winning.”