Luciano Spalletti concedes the Scudetto is “99 per cent Inter’s,” but that doesn’t mean Roma will relax against Torino.
Last week’s 1-1 draw with Livorno, and the knee ligament injury that has ruled Francesco Totti out for four months, have left them six points adrift of the leaders.
“It is our duty to keep looking forward and try to close down the gap from Inter. At the same time, we must keep an eye over our shoulders for Juventus,” said the Coach.
“Taking the Scudetto was already difficult when we were four points behind, so now it is even more so. It’s 99 per cent Inter’s, but we mustn’t forget that second place is crucial.”
That spot means automatic qualification for the Champions League next season without having to go through the preliminary round.
It has certainly been a rough week for the Giallorossi, whose captain underwent surgery last Sunday.
“It is a shame what has happened, because this injury came at a time when we have everything to play for and are missing a key figure. However, he has not let anyone get depressed about it. That is an important sign for his future and that of Roma.”
The other issue dominating headlines in the capital is the proposed buy-out offer from American-based millionaire George Soros.
“I know nothing about it and that’s the way it should be,” insisted Spalletti.
“It is not something I am going to worry about, because I have a job to do and the lads must also ensure they don’t get affected by it. We have contracts that are respected and so we must get points and win games.”
Totti’s absence means Mirko Vucinic takes the centre-forward role, moving Max Tonetto up into the support trident of a 4-2-3-1 formation.
