Injuries cost us, says Montella

Roma coach Vincenzo Montella has blamed injuries for his side’s failure to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Roma’s quest to qualify for the prestigious European competition finished on Sunday when they conceded a goal with the final kick of the game in a 2-1 loss to Catania and Montella’s side now requires a point at home against Sampdoria on the final day of the season just to ensure a spot in next season’s Europa League.

And the rookie coach believes he knows why his side fell short in their attempt to secure a top-four finish and a spot in Europe’s top competition.

“We need to have a clear head in analysing this season,” he said.

“We were unlucky with so many injuries and gave it our all to reach the Champions League, but we had to give in a week early.”

Montella was disappointed to concede such a late goal against Catania and was frustrated he could not influence the game late in proceedings, given he had already used his three substitutions.

“Today we came to Catania amid a thousand difficulties, between injuries and suspensions,” he said.

“I was forced into three substitutions during the game. Aleandro Rosi and Marco Cassetti were limping at the end because we had no more options. Fabio Simplicio was also staggering around.”

Montella’s future at Roma is now up in the air, with rumours already circulating that the 36-year-old might return to former club Sampdoria.

But Montella denies any contact with the recently relegated club.

“I have never been contacted by Samp, so for now it’s all rumour, but I do have great affection for that club,” Montella said.

“On a personal level it was a big step forward for me, however this experience ends. I gave everything I could for Roma and didn’t think about what it means for my own future.”