Roma made it 10 games unbeaten in Serie A with a win over Sampdoria on Sunday, leaving Jose Mourinho pleased with their progress.
The only goal came from the in-form Henrikh Mkhitaryan at the end of a 20-pass move in the first half.
By keeping a clean sheet from that point on, Roma have strengthened their grip on fifth place for now, although the battle for Europe remains close.
Roma will have to take what remains one game at a time, and this is what Mourinho made of this one.
On following up the derby with another win
“It’s true that the culture in Rome seems to be that if you win the derby you are in paradise, and if you lose it is a complete disaster. We were able to keep our feet on the ground, understanding nevertheless how important those points are.”
On the passing move that led to the only goal
“As far as the winning goal goes, in my opinion if it was another coach everyone would be talking right now about amazing football and building out from the back. But because it’s me, it’s hard [for people] to admit that.”
On seeing out the game
“I think the game was seen out once we added fresh legs: [Eldor] Shomurodov came on and did well, where Tammy [Abraham] was a bit tired mentally and physically. For 30 or 35 minutes in the second half we played to control the game and see it out but without that extra fire needed to score a clinching goal. The central defenders played really well though; they were rock solid.”
On the importance of Bryan Cristante
“I’ll give you a little laugh: that player is one that the press in Rome are sure I don’t want, that I don’t like and that next year will be up for sale.”
On the future of Mkhitaryan
“He’s having an amazing season. I want Micki to stay here and he wants to stay as well. Tiago Pinto and the ownership want Micki to stay. Mino Raiola wants his players to be happy. So if Micki wants to stay, then clearly Mino will ensure he stays.”
Leave a Reply