Spalletti urges Roma not to get carried away

AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has moved to calm down expectation following Tuesday's stunning 3-1 victory over Chelsea.

The Italian's Champions League Group A victory not only gave them a European lifeline but came as a welcome boost to morale and confidence in an otherwise dire season.

Roma are still just one point and one place above the Serie A relegation zone having begun the season with ambitions of pushing for the title.

On Saturday they travel to lowly Bologna, who will be boosted by the arrival of new coach Sinisa Mihajlovic, a former Roma player.

“We've won one match but we've lost many others, we have to keep working seriously,” said Spalletti, as a word of caution before looking on the bright side.

“However, the lads can now work with the tranquility that was previously missing. That's vital for the team to find it's game.

“It's better to expect the worst but the new found enthusiasm was clear for all to see in the changing room after the Chelsea match.

“It's spirit that counts and if you have that everything goes well. I hope the bad times are behind us.”

Mihajlovic meanwhile has told his new charges to have no fear, regardless of their opponents.

“You don't need a missile, all you need is a water-pistol, as long as you hit them in the eye,” he said cryptically.