Philippe Mexes warns Roma they have “no choice” but to win the derby on Sunday night against Lazio.
There are a staggering 14 points separating the teams going into this match – although the Giallorossi do have a game in hand to be played with Sampdoria in January – and in a rare turnaround Lazio are the favourites.
“We have trained with focus and joy over the week and the squad is always united, even if the moment is difficult,” said the Frenchman.
“The results are not going our way, but the derby comes at the right time. We have got to win, we have no choice, and will give everything just as we did against Chelsea.”
That 3-1 Champions League victory seemed to be the turning point for Roma, but Cicinho’s stoppage-time own goal followed it up with a 1-1 draw at struggling Bologna.
“It is a terrible time for us and an inexplicable situation. Nothing has changed in the locker room, we still get along and laugh together as we always did. We try to do everything the Coach asks of us.
“We have to go as far as we possibly can this season. Right now we are rubbish and the table makes painful reading, but there are many points up for grabs and we can make up lost ground.”
Francesco Totti should be fit to start despite a twinge in his knee during Friday’s training session.
It will be the first Derby della Capitale since President Franco Sensi passed away, though Mexes assures he is gone but not forgotten.
“I remember when he used to come into the locker room before the derby. We will miss his passion on Sunday, but we know he is watching us from up there and will give his contribution for a victory.”
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