[dukeofdavinci]

Spalletti sees Viola danger Saturday 23 February, 2008

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Luciano Spalletti praised Fiorentina’s quality, but insisted there is no chance Roma will loosen their grip on second place.

Last week’s 1-0 defeat in Turin put Juventus within a point of the Giallorossi and there is the real risk of being overtaken as they face the Viola.

“In terms of second place having Juventus right behind our shoulders is a danger. They have great tradition and I am certain will have a wonderful season right to the end, so we must do the same to keep them back.

“What I can be sure of is that we have no risk of ‘letting go’ now.”

Francesco Totti has not been 100 per cent fit for a while and disappointed against the Bianconeri, but Spalletti is confident that situation won’t last.

“He is visibly improving and I am sure that soon he will be able to give his contribution, 100 per cent.”

Roma’s confidence was boosted by a midweek victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, but goalscorer Amantino Mancini is suspended for the Fiorentina showdown.

This means Mirko Vucinic should take the Brazilian’s place in the attacking trident supporting Totti.

“Fiorentina are a dangerous opponent, having an excellent campaign and progressing in the UEFA Cup too,” noted the Coach.

“They have a complete squad, as do we, and are one of the teams who play the best football.”

Christian Panucci is an injury doubt for the Sunday afternoon match, which will be shown live on Five from 13.45 on Sunday.

Roma squad: Antunes, Aquilani, Julio Sergio, Brighi, Cassetti, Cicinho, De Rossi, Doni, Esposito, Ferrari, Giuly, Mexes, Perrotta, Pit, Pizarro, Taddei, Tonetto, Totti, Vucinic, Zotti

well no mancini wch i prefer him more then vucinic, but hey we cant ne choosers and just have to keep on doing what we do best.

hoping for a good clean game as we do have cl to content wth in a forth night.

as spalletti pointed out we got to keep hold of the 2nd spot and fend off juve or the others.forza roma!!