Eusebio Di Francesco wants Radja Nainggolan to “work both going forward and in defence” after Roma’s friendly defeat to Sevilla.
The Giallorossi were beaten 2-1 at the Sanchez-Pizjuan for the Antonio Puerta trophy, as Alisson was twice beaten at the near post by Sergio Escudero and Nolito before a late Edin Dzeko consolation goal.
Eusebio Di Francesco wants Radja Nainggolan to “work both going forward and in defence” after Roma’s friendly defeat to Sevilla.
The Giallorossi were beaten 2-1 at the Sanchez-Pizjuan for the Antonio Puerta trophy, as Alisson was twice beaten at the near post by Sergio Escudero and Nolito before a late Edin Dzeko consolation goal.
“It’s normal that we got a bit stretched out towards the end, whereas Sevilla haven’t changed much and have certain specific tactical habits,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We’re further behind in fitness terms too, but still played a good game. We should’ve been more daring with a few more forward passes, but if we consider that we also hit the upright, I think it was a decent performance.
“I know that Gregoire Defrel can play wide, I am training him in that role, but he has been a centre-forward for years and is struggling in certain situations. He is versatile and is proving that.
“I think we had the right attitude, we need to improve our fitness levels and co-ordination, but that’s normal at this stage of pre-season.”
Di Francesco was asked if he had decided on the centre-back who would regularly partner Kostas Manolas.
“This is the wrong way of looking at it. You keep talking about first choice players, when we should be able to rely on as many different players as possible.
“I liked the sense of sacrifice from Nainggolan and he improved as the game went on, proving decisive in every move. He’s rediscovering the desire to track back too. Radja is a midfielder and he must work both going forward and in defence, so I am working to ensure he is available for both phases.
“We are a work in progress, so there’s no need to be hasty in judging this Roma side. Apart from an initial 10-15 minutes to settle down, the team did well. For the moment, I am happy, but there are 10 days to go before the season begins and I expect significant improvements.”