Zdenek Zeman prepares for Palermo and is bullish in defending Roma after two consecutive defeats. “Why should I change? Barcelona keep the same attitude.”

Zdenek Zeman prepares for Palermo and is bullish in defending Roma after two consecutive defeats. “Why should I change? Barcelona keep the same attitude.”

There were huge injury doubts over Daniele De Rossi, but he is in the squad despite skipping today’s training session.

Pablo Daniel Osvaldo and Leandro Castan have shaken off knocks, while Federico Balzaretti and Rodrigo Taddei return. Maarten Stekelenburg’s injury means Mauro Goicoechea gets his first Serie A start.

“If the results don’t arrive then it’s normal that people won’t be happy. As a Coach I judge from my perspective,” said Zeman in a Press conference.

“Apart from a few inopportune defeats, the team has to get used to playing a certain type of football.”

There have been reports circulating over the past few days that the Coach is not happy with Mattia Destro and could give the all-clear to a January move.

“I strongly wanted Destro and he is needed by Roma. I have a strong bench this season and so can make my decisions.”

The Giallorossi were leading their last two games against Udinese and Parma, but emerged beaten 3-2 in both, so Sunday night’s clash with Palermo could be crucial.

“You journalists see it that way, but in my mind every match is decisive. If you encounter a superior opponent, you take your hat off to them. I hope the team plays well tomorrow, but apart from Juventus we were always superior to our opponents and unfortunately paid for mistakes.”

Zeman is bullish in defending his 4-3-3 system and all-attack approach.

“We have done well this season, but can do better. We gave away two games and were only justly beaten in Turin. We certainly didn’t lose matches because we attacked.

“Roma are in seventh place and there are 12 sides below us, but I am convinced this team has value and I’m working towards this. I know sooner or later that quality will emerge. Why should I change when there are elements that satisfy me?

“I do not feel more pressure this week. I am responsible for a team that so far has not done what was expected, but I am convinced this side will satisfy the fans.

“The club has never suggested I change tactics. I get along well with the directors and we have the same objectives. This squad was built to play a certain type of football and it makes me laugh when you say certain players are not suited to it.

“Barcelona never change their attitude and I am trying to build a great squad.”

Roma squad for Palermo: Balzaretti, Bradley, Burdisso, Castan, De Rossi, Destro, Dodo, Florenzi, Goicoechea, Lamela, Lopez, Marquinho, Marquinhos, Osvaldo, Perrotta, Piris, Pjanic, Romagnoli, Svedkauskas, Tachtsidis, Taddei, Totti

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tickets Kit Collector