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Roma have set a new Serie A record with 11 straight wins, but boss Luciano Spalletti believes that can extend that against Inter on Sunday night.
“The record we achieved just makes us want to do even better, even if we must consider that all this talk of an unstoppable side also stimulates our opponents to prove their own strength,” said the Coach. “After all, whoever ends our run will be singled out for praise.”
Sunday’s clash at the Stadio Olimpico is certainly set to be entertaining, as in all eight meetings between the two Coaches, both teams have hit the back of the net for a total of 27 goals.
It is also a high-scoring fixture for the clubs, as the last three editions here have ended with 2-2, 4-1 and 3-3 results, while Inter want revenge for their 3-2 defeat at the San Siro earlier this season.
“I have said in the past that Inter, Juventus and Milan are better teams than us, but in a single 90-minute encounter, we can challenge anyone,” noted Spalletti.
“Roberto Mancini is in a difficult situation, because he is in one of those clubs that demand the Scudetto. They are motivated now and want to ensure second place, so they are a dangerous team to be taking on.”
Adriano and ex-Roma defender Walter Samuel are suspended for the trip to the capital, while the Giallorossi are without Francesco Totti, Shabani Nonda and Damiano Tommasi.
“We have said nothing about Adriano’s ban, but it is a shame, as he is a great player and everyone wants to see champions on the field. Tommasi is out, while I hope Sami Kuffour returns today, as he had a few problems at the airport. Vincenzo Montella is improving and I’m sure he can give an important contribution to the squad. Leandro Cufrè is not 100 per cent fit, but Cesare Bovo is ready to step in.”
Alberto Aquilani is also suspended for Roma after taking off his jersey to celebrate a goal in the 2-0 derby win last weekend.
“He is more upset than anyone. He said the rules on celebrations should be changed, but seeing as they are in force, the easiest thing to do is simply to respect them. The enthusiasm after that match was incredible, but during the week I saw the players focused and disciplined.”
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