Perotti: We’re raring to go

As the squad got together for the first time ahead of the new campaign, the Argentine forward told asroma.com that he can’t wait to get started and is expecting a big season from the Giallorossi.

“We’re raring to go. All of us have come to do the tests and you can see the desire,” Perotti said, speaking before the squad underwent medical assessments at Villa Stuart on Thursday.

“A team like ours needs to be aiming for the Scudetto and we should be looking to go far in the Champions League.”

What do Roma need to do to challenge at the top this year?

“Last year we did very well. It wasn’t easy against a team like Juventus, who weren’t losing at all. We need to play the way we did over the last four or five months of the season – if we do that we can go far.”

Are you pleased to be getting back into it?

“Yes, after nearly 45 days away from the game we’re missing football, so I’m delighted to be coming back and getting started again. My body is feeling the need to get back into training.”

Have you had a good summer? Did you manage to get some rest?

“Yes – I’ve been in Argentina, where it’s winter. I spent time with my family and friends, rested up and did all the things you can’t do during the season. Now I’ve got all the energy I need to give 100%.”

How much are you looking forward to your first preseason under Luciano Spalletti? It’s sure to be hard work…

“I’m sure it will be, but I’m used to that. Anyone that knows [Gian Piero] Gasperini, my coach at Genoa, knows that he makes you work really hard – preseason was tough under him too. In my eyes it’s a good thing because I feel like I need to train. It won’t be a problem.”

How important is it to start the season with your team-mates from the very beginning?

“It’s key. Last year I arrived in January and the settling-in period was very quick, but I’m sure it’s going to do me a lot of good to be with my team-mates from July this season.”