Stephan El Shaarawy will make his first start since returning to Roma in Thursday’s Europa League clash with Braga.
Roma welcome their Portuguese opponents to Stadio Olimpico, looking to protect a 2-0 lead from the first leg.
Braga must score at least twice to stand any chance of knocking Roma out. While the Giallorossi are on a run of three consecutive clean sheets, they will have to deal with defensive challenges again.
Federico Fazio and Juan Jesus are not in the Europa League squad list, but Bryan Cristante is able to return. He will likely play in between Gianluca Mancini and Leonardo Spinazzola in defence; Roger Ibañez, Marash Kumbulla and Chris Smalling all remain out.
Further forward, Paulo Fonseca has confirmed a start for El Shaarawy, although there is a chance he may have to cover in a deeper role than he would like. Spinazzola’s usual left wing-back spot is up for grabs, and his compatriot may have to cover there unless Bruno Peres continues in the role, which would free El Shaarawy up to form part of an attacking trident.
At the top of that formation, Fonseca will have to choose carefully between Edin Dzeko and Borja Mayoral, both of whom scored in the first leg.
Those goals put Roma in a strong position ahead of the reunion at the Olimpico. La Magica are unbeaten in their last eight home games in the Europa League; if they can extend that to a ninth game, they will definitely be through to the Round of 16.
The game kicks off at 8pm UK time and will be available to watch live here.
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