El Shaarawy: We came here and played with our heads held high

Here's what the Italy international had to say after the game...

You seem to be growing into this new role as a wing-back...

“I do what the coach asks of me, even in the pressing phase of the game. I go and put pressure on their full-back and when they move the ball I shift into the defensive phase of the game.

"It's a role where you need to make sure you are covering the danger, but it's something I am capable of doing. I can play anywhere down the wing, I can play wherever is need. Whatever is important for the team."

You immediately came into the game at half-time and did well. Does that mentality help you stick to the tactical job you are asked to do?

“We showed that mentality, that spirit, that desire to come away fromt he game with something. We came into this stadium and played with our head high. We faced the best side in the league, so it's never going to be easy. With the playing style I have I find it easier to offer some impetus in attack.

"Clearly when you are playing as the wing-back you are not going to have as many chances to score, so the statistics are very different, but that's what the boss wants. Come on, try to add to the attacking threat ... last year it went well here and we got a point from that. This year we did not get a point out of it but the spirit was the right one and we need to continue with this mindset."

With Zaniolo's ongoing situation, could you be an option in attack as well?

“Playing in the front three is definitely something that would suit me - as I did in La Spezia, where I was a bit nearer the opposition goal. But it's down to the coach to make those decisions. If he asks me what my preference is, though, then I would say in the attack is my natural role."

Don't you think those players currently outside the group could be welcomed back in?

"It's not easy to speak about a teammate who is going through a difficult moment right now. I don't feel like it's my place to get involved in the situation. We are focused on qualifying for the Champions League - I want us to be focused on that."