The Giallorossi’s former hero Giuseppe Giannini gives his analysis of their current woes, while Siena suffer a serious injury setback.

“Francesco Totti will remain in the history books and he is the only one who can take Roma out of their funk now,” said the 1990’s symbol of the club.

“To be captain of Roma means representing a city and a group of fans that lives for its colours. There is double the responsibility of other players and if you happen to be a lifelong supporter of the side yourself, that pressure is tripled.”

Giannini wore the Number 10 jersey and refused to leave his hometown club despite offers from more prestigious sides and Totti has always named him as his inspiration. Now ‘Il Principe’ is called to explain what has gone wrong in a Roma team that has already lost nine official games this season – its last three on the trot – and now hovers one point above the relegation zone.

“The danger here is that the team is made up of champions who aren’t used to being in critical situations like this. They hope their talent will get them through, but in these battles you need heart, soul and fire. That is how my Roma got itself out of an embarrassing corner.”

Gigi Del Neri and former Coach Rudi Voller admitted problems controlling the players and a lack of discipline has been a key issue this season.

“There are moments when the most representative players have to speak up and show the youngsters the way forward,” continued Giannini. “Totti can fulfil this role, both for his captaincy and the fact he is the most talented player at the club. Everyone has to prove this is not the real Roma.”

The 2-1 home defeat to Siena in the Coppa Italia left a scar on the Giallorossi, but an even bigger one on the Tuscans.

Andrea Ardito limped off during that game after a crunching tackle from Daniele De Rossi and x-rays have shown a fractured second metatarsal in his right foot. The midfielder will be out of action for between two and three months.

Meanwhile, Del Neri has decided to leave Philippe Mexes, Amantino Mancini and Christian Panucci at home for Tuesday’s trip to face Dynamo Kiev. They are already out of the Champions’ League and it will take nothing short of a miracle to earn that third UEFA Cup spot.

Roma squad: Aquilani, Candela, Cassano, Corvia, Cufrè, Curci, D'Agostino, Dellas, Ferrari, Mido, Montella, Pelizzoli, Perrotta, Sartor, Scurto, Totti, Pipolo, Briotti, De Martino, Virga.

|