Mattia De Sciglio is very impressed by Roma, but “honestly did not expect” Milan to be fighting them for second place in Serie A.

It kicks off on Monday at 20.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.

Going into the weekend, these two sides are locked together in joint second place, four points behind leaders Juventus.

Mattia De Sciglio is very impressed by Roma, but “honestly did not expect” Milan to be fighting them for second place in Serie A.

It kicks off on Monday at 20.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.

Going into the weekend, these two sides are locked together in joint second place, four points behind leaders Juventus.

“To be honest, I did not expect to be in this situation, but we were very eager to do well because for three years we haven’t qualified for European competition,” the full-back told Il Messaggero newspaper.

“We know that we have to keep taking it one game at a time, but victories do continue to build enthusiasm. It’s very early and there’s a long way to go this season, so it’s best not to think about whether we are the ‘anti-Juventus’ or not.

“The Giallorossi are a great side with many champions who can change the balance of a game by themselves. We must play the way we did against other big clubs this season – remain compact and help each other out during difficult moments. It’ll be important to make the most of our chances.

“Roma play good football and attack in numbers. We must remain concentrated for the entire 90 minutes. Mohamed Salah is injured, it’s true, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be dangerous.”

De Sciglio is keeping a particularly close eye on Capocannoniere Edin Dzeko.

“He is a striker who moves around a great deal, is physically strong and is also good with his feet. With him Roma have many options in attack, especially now he has rediscovered his confidence.”

The Rossoneri have their own hitman in Gianluca Lapadula, whose form is shoving Carlos Bacca onto the sidelines.

“Gianluca is a lad who really gives his heart and soul. He’s a hard worker who is hungry for success. That’s what has brought him this far – he never holds back.”

Milan have been revitalised under new Coach Vincenzo Montella, who started his management career at Roma.

“Montella has a different philosophy to the other Coaches we’ve had. He makes us work with the ball a great deal in training. When you use the ball, you need to engage your mind as well, so that helps us remain concentrated at all times.”

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