Karsdorp 'can't wait' to face old rivals

The game at the Stadio Olimpico gets underway at 21:00 CEST, with a place in the semi-finals of the competition up for grabs.

Here's what Karsdorp had to say in his press conference ahead of the game...

What sort of game are you expecting tomorrow?

“Ajax are a side that will want to press us, that will want to take the ball – so I think they are going to try and press us high up the pitch. But we have similar intentions and I think that will make it an interesting game.”

Having come from Feyenoord, will it mean more to you to beat Ajax?

“It’s true that Ajax-Feyenoord is a big game, special, a bit like the Rome derby. But now I am a Roma player. It’s not really Rick against Ajax, it’s Roma against Ajax. I expect it to be another good game, like the one in Amsterdam. We want to get through to the next round and we have to make sure we show that on the pitch.”

Do you think you deserve to go to the European Championship with the Netherlands?

“In the last three years I have not really played that many games. This year I am back to my old levels. I’m still not at my best, but I think I’m on the right path. I think this question is better asked to someone else, rather than me. Right now I’m just focused on doing well for Roma.”

What does it mean for you to be going up against a Dutch club?

“Clearly it’s a special occasion for me. It’s exciting, it’s motivating. Ajax are a side that want to play good football, that want to press and win the ball back – and we like to play that way too. I can’t wait for the game.”

What are you still lacking to reach your best then?

“A footballer can always improve. I am still young. I want to play as much as possible, at the highest level possible, making sure I’m ready whenever I’m called upon. That’s why I signed a new contract here until 2025. That’s what I wanted. I am playing regularly under coach Fonseca, I need to continue doing that.”

Do you think there is a difference in the way your position is used in Italy and in the Netherlands?

“There are a few different tactical elements. It is said that in Italy the game is more tactical, more defensive – but I think in Holland too these aspects are now getting more and more attention. What makes a bigger difference is whether you go out there with three at the back or four.”