Collecchio, 21 December 2024 – This is what Coach Fabio Pecchia had to say on the eve of Parma’s matchday 17 clash away to Roma in Serie A:

A PARMA SIDE FULL OF FIGHT AGAINST ROMA

'We shouldn't dwell too much on our recent defeat, even if it’s bothered us. This season, even more than in the past, we need to have the strength to face the week with enthusiasm. This is what Serie A is also about: that is, knowing how to manage such moments. We need to come up with big performances and earn points; that's the most important thing. Roma are a great team who have rediscovered a sense of calm, and a fantastic, stimulating atmosphere awaits. I want to see a Parma side full of fight, a team with the desire to perform and take on a Roma side with quality, a solid structure and physical strength.'

INJURIES AND A SHARED VISION

'There are constant discussions with the Club, and we have a clear vision of what Parma should be. No one expected to lose any players for such a long period. I didn’t expect it. It’s something which is a bit out of our control, but I’ve seen Serie A teams real crises injury-wise. That being said, we have to deal with it, and we all need to take responsibility.'

SPIRIT AND LIVELINESS

'I don’t know if frequent tactical changes bring advantages for the players. I like to do things with careful thought and not impulsively. Of course, the numbers are what they are for some players, and we don’t have all too many options. Therefore, picking a team is easy. Against Roma, the team will need to show spirit, be lively and have the desire to score goals. Every match is a big experience, and what you learn from it is important going into the next one. We need to focus on what we have and what we need to do, and we must be attentive. There are things we need to correct, but the aim is to continue with the same spirit and desire to perform and be more consistent defensively.'

ROMA IN GOOD SHAPE

'Recently, Roma have rediscovered a good shape and strength; they’re an excellent team. As Ranieri said, numbers don’t matter; more important is how a system is interpreted. We have certain characteristics and need to stay focused.'