The team got off to a disastrous start including embarrassing defeats to Cluj, Siena and Genoa, but are back in business with three straight wins in all competition.

“We know that we have a game in hand and can get there, but it depends on us. If we win the matches that are there to be won, then I think we can finish fourth in Serie A,” said the Brazilian.

They currently have 14 points from 12 games, but have to play Sampdoria in January, as that fixture was rained off.

It would be quite a comeback, as right now Roma are 10 points adrift of Napoli in fourth place.

They face a crucial showdown on Sunday afternoon against rivals for fourth place Fiorentina.

“We are improving at this moment and that is what we needed. You can see that the team is playing better football.”

The 3-1 victory away to Cluj midweek meant the Giallorossi would finish ahead of Chelsea to top the group if they beat Bordeaux at the Olimpico, but at the same time qualification is not yet secure.

“The teams that are going through to the next phase are all very strong, like Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Chelsea. The side with fewer problems will be the one that makes the difference.”

Baptista hopes Roma have had their fair share of problems at the start of the season so the rest will be plain sailing.

One of the crucial turning points was Luciano Spalletti’s introduction of a 4-4-2 with a diamond midfield.

“Every Coach has to evaluate the situation when things aren’t working and what needs to be changed. He did that and I think the new system is working very well. The players feel they belong with these tactics.”