English teams beware, says Spalletti

AS Roma manager Luciano Spalletti is confident his team can be one of a host of European clubs to redress the balance of power in the Champions League.

English teams have dominated the tournament in recent years, with three Premier League teams making the final four of the competition last season.

The Italian side take on Arsenal in the first knockout round, first leg, on Tuesday evening at the Emirates Stadium hoping to improve on their record over English teams.

Spalletti’s side have crashed to successive defeats to Manchester United in the competition but are aiming to change that against Arsene Wenger’s depleted Arsenal.

“We have often lost when we have come to England but the statistics are not important,” said Spalletti.

“We have worked to improve the team and know it’s important to win. This team has shown character on a number of occasions against this kind of opposition.

“We have tried to improve our mentality and we have beaten English teams at home and I feel confident that sooner or later we will win (in England).

“In my opinion, Arsenal as a group are special because of their tradition. They may be young but they have a lot of quality.

“The club knows how to transmit the right behaviour to the players when they wear the shirt.

“It is part of their project to find young players with lots of talent and from the very start they must show personality.

“I saw them in their last match (a 0-0 Premier League draw with Sunderland) and they were in good condition and had lots of quality, despite the draw.

“We are always self-confident in our qualities and my players can always have confidence in the team.

“Our outlook and our preparation is always the same whoever plays and I would bet on a good Roma performance.”

Spalletti has injury concerns over Brazil defender Juan who has a thigh strain. However, Montenegro international Mirko Vuini and Alberto Aquilani are expected to be available.

Both players were rested for the 1-0 win over Siena on Saturday but took part in training on Monday night.

“I feel some of the injuries are difficult to recover in time, especially Juan, the chances of him recovering in time is small,” said the Roma handler.

“I think I can have Cicinho but we need to be aware of the condition of Vuini. Aquilani will also train.”