| Roma are ready for “a battle” away to Reggina, but Antonio Cassano, Philippe Mexes and Olivier Dacourt represent a problem.
The two French internationals are not even making the trip down to Reggio Calabria for the Sunday afternoon tie due to injury, while Giuseppe Scurto and Gigi Sartor are suspended. Cassano is likely to be frozen out as a result of his contract dispute.
“I will only decide the starting eleven on Sunday morning,” insisted Coach Luciano Spalletti. “Antonio is a Roma player and our objective is to make the most of his extraordinary qualities. I hope to have him with me for the entire season, but I cannot say what will happen.”
There have been strong reports that the transfer deadline will see the Italian international move to Juventus in exchange for Adrian Mutu, Giorgio Chiellini and a cash sum.
“I have spoken to Antonio and he has his reasons, so everyone should come together and employ a little empathy. There are a few days to go still, but if nobody comes in for Cassano and he doesn’t sign a new contract, then the situation will change, as his status would become transitory.”
The Giallorossi have other matters to attend to, as Ivan Pelizzoli’s move to Reggina – their opponents this weekend – has left them short on shot-stoppers.
“I haven’t exactly requested another goalkeeper, but I do expect one,” confessed Spalletti. “With only Gianluca Curci and Pipolo in the squad, we need a third to complete the squad. As for our overall team status, I can’t say whether we are stronger or weaker than other sides. A lot will depend on our attitude in each individual game.”
Last season they suffered a shock defeat at the Stadio Granillo – one of the results that sent them spiralling towards the relegation zone – so to begin again in the same arena will give Francesco Totti and company the opportunity to prove those days are over.
“Reggina will attack us with pace and try to take advantage of defensive errors,” noted Spalletti. “Walter Mazzarri is an excellent Coach and he beat me last year when I was still at Udinese. We must be wary.”
Roma squad: Alvarez, Aquilani, Bovo, Cassano, Chivu, Cufré, Curci, De Rossi, Kharja, Kuffour, Mancini, Montella, Nonda, Panucci, Perrotta, Taddei, Totti, Pipolo, Rosi
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发表于 2005-8-27 22:05:00
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