El Shaarawy comments on Midtjylland triumph

Here’s what the Giallorossi forward had to say.

You put in an important performance and got a decisive goal. What are your thoughts?

"I tried to do my part and I'm happy to have scored my first goal of the season. My last game was also positive, so I’m having a good spell."

You also changed the game in Cremona. Is this the approach the coach wants from you?

"Indeed. That's what I've always said, and that's what I expect from all the players. When we come on the pitch, whoever starts and whoever comes on must be decisive in some way, because many matches are decided in the second half. Every player who comes on must make their contribution."

Standing two meters away from us is Gian Piero Gasperini, the same coach who gave you your first Serie A appearance when you were 16.

"Yes, it’s nice how things work out. I don't know how much time has passed - I think it has been 17 years since my Serie A debut against Genoa. Having him back as coach hasn’t changed things a lot because he’s still the same guy who really pushes you and brings out the best in you. I'm happy to have him here."

Do you feel comfortable with Gasperini always using six forwards per game? Is playing the role of substitute a bit restrictive?

"No, because it’s down to the coach. It almost seems like there are no starters or substitutes, because when someone plays, it's because they deserve it. Maybe it’s because they're doing well in training and the coach deems them to be ready. So, when you come on, whether it's during a game or from the start, you have to do your bit. You have to make things happen, you have to provide assists, you have to score goals. Whether I start or come on during a game I have to be decisive, and that's fine by me."

How have Roma changed since the start of the season? Can you be more dominant in attack?

"We can – that’s what we’re putting a lot of time and effort into during training. The interplay between the attackers and getting dangerous balls into the box are something the coach wants and we're trying to achieve this. Given that we have so much quality up front we have to try and pick out our team-mates in the box and get shots away. That's what the coach always asks for. We're improving a lot in this regard."

You've provided an assist and a goal this week, and you'll soon be getting married, so congratulations. Do you know what's missing, though? A signature on a lifetime contract renewal with Roma.

"Well, we still have to talk about that. Let's wait and see what happens."