Here's what the coach had to say...
That was an important and deserved win tonight, especially given the period you're going through. I was particularly impressed by how determined the team looked when you lost the ball. Are you pleased with the team's response? Is that what you were looking for from a mental perspective and in terms of how you want the game played?
“It was important for us to get back on track after Florence. We did really well against a team that are tough to play against. The lads played well when moving the ball around, defensively and in timing things right. When we needed to be a bit tighter, they did everything well, both with the ball and while chasing it. In what was a very difficult moment, everything went well.”
Did you expect such a compact response off the pitch as well? You got the support you needed.
“We have to give our fans something to smile about. We have to give them joy again. Today there were times when I heard applause, when they were happy. Only with performances like that can we regain their trust. That's the big target for my team.”
Roma came back out for the second half before Torino. I guess you didn't say much during the break.
“There were some difficult moments after Florence, which was only right. Now we just need to think about playing football, about improving our performances, being focused on the ball, on our games, and nothing else.
“The team looked very focused to me today. We barely gave Torino a look-in. I'm very pleased with the players who started and those who came off the bench. They gave everything.”
What do you think when you see that 'Daje Ivan' (Come on, Ivan) banner?
“I don't know if it was for me or someone else. Up till now, I don't have reason to be very happy. I've done some quite good things but we can do a lot better. I hope to regain the fans' trust through our performances, our solidity, our play and our ideas. That's what I hope.”
What can you say about the partnership between Manu Kone and Enzo Le Fee?
“They're a good pairing because Manu is very strong and has lots of other qualities. Le Fee is very intelligent. He reads the game so well, plugs gaps, and gives us balance. I was happy with them today, each with their own attributes. They gave us intensity defensively but also with the ball: they moved it around well.”
On Sunday you'll be facing another of your former sides. Will Arem Dovbyk be available again? Is Lorenzo Pellegrini ok?
“Pellegrini was a technical decision. He came on and played like a captain, and I'm very happy. Dovbyk had a virus but I hope to have him back for Sunday. We tried this solution, with a sort of false nine, and it worked well for long spells. But it's important to get the others fit again too.”
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