Karsdorp 'feels like a new signing' as he prepares for new campaign

Signed by the Giallorossi last summer, a troublesome knee issue delayed his start with the club – before an ACL tear during his full debut for the club effectively ended his campaign before it had even begun.

Now back to fitness and participating fully in his first full pre-season with the side, the Netherlands international is ready to make up for last time.

“I feel like a new player for Roma,” Karsdorp told Roma TV on Friday.

“The advantage is I know a little bit what the coach wants. But I really want to show all the fans what I can do, and repay the club for showing so much faith in me and supporting me.”

“I have not really set goals for myself this season, especially after last term. I just want to stay fit and play as much as possible.”

Karsdorp is enjoying the environment, with Roma players remaining at Trigoria throughout the two-week training camp.

“Training here is definitely an advantage - Trigoria is like a second home to us,” he said.

“We have everything we need here, it is an absolutely top facility. In general it is good for us, as a group, to be together in everything we do – it builds our spirit and so this period will be important for the rest of the season.”

The Giallorossi now have three Dutch players in the squad, with Karsdorp and Kevin Strootman joined by summer arrival Justin Kluivert.

“It is great to have a few other Dutch players with us,” Karsdorp said.

“Justin is my roommate for this training camp, which is great. We can talk together in our own language, get to know each other. Kevin Strootman is a big help to both of us, because we are a bit younger.”

He added: “Kevin is a top professional, he works hard in training, during the gym. But it is the right way to work. He has had his own injury issues, so he knows what it takes to get through that and what you need to do in the gym every day to be fit and healthy.”