Zdenek Zeman praised Roma’s midfield and forwards for finally helping out in defence, but admits to a concern ahead of the Derby della Capitale.
Zdenek Zeman praised Roma’s midfield and forwards for finally helping out in defence, but admits to a concern ahead of the Derby della Capitale.
“When you win, people say there are improvements, but we had done pretty well in other games too,” said the Coach after their 4-1 victory against Palermo.
“Tonight we got a good result, I am happy for the lads and hope they continue to believe in this football.”
Zeman was asked whether leaving out the injured Daniele De Rossi actually made Roma more suited to his ideas.
“Michael Bradley and De Rossi have similar characteristics. Mauro Goicoechea did well this evening, we brought him to Roma and are all happy with him.”
Mattia Destro scored his first goal for the club, but also received a second yellow card for taking his shirt off his head during the celebration.
“I still think the rule is wrong. He didn’t take the jersey off completely. I understand Destro scored his first goal for Roma and was very happy, so I hope he will score many more in future. Naturally he will be suspended now and it is damaging.”
Unusually after two consecutive 3-2 defeats, the Giallorossi barely allowed any Palermo shots on target this evening.
“I have always said in football there are two phases. The midfield and also strikers helped out the defence tonight, especially Osvaldo who worked very hard. If all 11 players work then we shouldn’t have any problems,” continued Zeman on Sky Sport Italia.
“Erik Lamela has great talent, pace and technique, which he is using to score goals. Nicolas Burdisso always worked hard and tried his best, but he was not accustomed to playing this way and just took a little longer to change his style after so many years.
“I observed Panagiotis Tachtsidis in Serie B last season and he impressed me with his vision, so he is confirming what I saw. Maybe some see him differently, but I think he’s doing a great job when attacking and defending.
“I would like to eliminate horizontal passes, as they can be easily intercepted and spark counter-attacks.”
Next Sunday afternoon there is the huge Derby della Capitale and Lazio” data-scaytid=”62″>Lazio lost 4-0 in Catania today, so are Roma the favourites?
“Usually the team that is the favourite tends to lose the derby. It was better to win, of course, as long as we don’t get complacent or think everything has been sorted out.
“Will I dive in a fountain if we win? No, I only go in the sea in summer.”