View from the Opposition: Empoli

The game in Rome gets underway at 18:00 CEST.

"Empoli's biggest strength is probably that they will be able to play without pressure or expectation," Lotti says.

Has Aurelio Andreazzoli changed anything about his approach from his first spell at Empoli?

"Andreazzoli's approach has always been pretty focused on the attacking side of things. In his first spell Empoli always went out on the pitch to try and play their way, regardless of what the opponent might set up to do. It was an admirable idea but in that first spell in Serie A the Azzurri were often too open at the back and got punished for it.

"This time around Andreazzoli's ideas seem to have changed slightly: now he tries to retain much of that attacking intent but blend it with greater defensive security. That was evident in the last two games, against Cagliari and Bologna, where the team seemed to react more to their opponents and looked to latch onto any mistakes."

Empoli come into this game with two wins in a row - so what sort of challenge can Roma expect?

"Roma are coming up against an Empoli side that are in good form right now. They'll be playing without pressure or expectation on Sunday, so it could make for an entertaining game. Morale is high around the team.

"They tend to play a 4-3-1-2 but it can easily change to a 4-3-2-1: Di Francesco can drop in and become something of a second striker, whereas Bajrami offers more playmaking. Against Cagliari they tried Henderson behind the two strikers and that really worked well. I think it could make for an interesting midfield battle on Sunday."

Which new players have proven key for Andreazzoli so far?

"Two weeks ago I would have given you a very different answer to this question. But, right now, Federico Di Francesco seems crucial to the side because of the movement he offers in attack, whereas Samuele Ricci is similarly indispensible for what he can do to dictate from midfield.

"One to keep an eye on in the defence is Mattia Viti. He's come through the academy and he's very highly-rated within the club. And then there is Bajrami, one of those players who can quickly create a dangerous attacking opportunity with his quality and vision."

Do you reckon Empoli will think they can take advantage of Roma's midweek trip to Ukraine?

"Playing in Ukraine on Thursday and then Rome on Sunday is definitely not the best schedule for the Giallorossi, especially given the late return from the first one. But I think Mourinho will know how to rotate his players in order to have the freshest side possible out there for the game.

"The mental side of things is very important; Roma need to respond after the derby setback and they'll be looking to do that against Empoli. It won't be the freshest Roma side ever, but I don't think the Conference League commitments will have a massive impact."

Which Roma players do you think will particularly worry Empoli?

"Lorenzo Pellegrini's return after his suspension is definitely the worst news for Empoli: he's already an amazing central midfielder and with Mourinho he seems to becoming one of the best in Europe in his position. He's smart and good on the ball; one of the few players in Italy who can change a game with one moment of brilliance.

"But Roma have a lot of other good players: Zaniolo is still improving and Veretout is always dangerous, while Shomurodov is capable of making a big impact off the bench. Roma have a great squad."

What's your prediction?

"In Empoli they know it is going to be difficult to come to Rome and take points against Roma - so first and foremost they want to play well, whatever the result may be.

"It won't be an easy game for Roma, I think it could even be quite even on the pitch, even if the Giallorossi are favourites. But Empoli have never won at the Olimpico."