Roma have been massively inconsistent and Gigi Del Neri defended himself against criticism, but has Antonio Cassano back for today’s Brescia test.


“Cassano is fine now,” explained the Coach after his ankle and thigh injuries, “but we’ll need a late fitness test to see whether or not he can start.”


The Italian international is particularly valuable for this match seeing as captain Francesco Totti is suspended, while Ivan Pelizzoli and Traianos Dellas have not even made the journey. Despite this crisis, summer signing Mido will find it difficult to break into the side.


“Mido can become useful, but certainly not in the starting line-up. He says he wants to play and we believe in him, but he has to prove that he is worthy of Roma.”


Instead, youth team product Daniele Corvia has now been permanently promoted to the first team after some impressive performances, including the midweek 3-0 defeat to Real Madrid, but the number of teenagers in the side is causing some concern.


“It is a tactical choice as these players are doing very well,” insisted Del Neri. “Motivation has nothing to do with it. Right now we need points and we’ll have more time to work on my tactics over the Christmas break.”


There has been some controversy over the system used, as almost all the players have publicly come out in favour of the 3-4-3, whereas Del Neri continues to stick with his beloved 4-4-2.


“I prefer Amantino Mancini as a winger and not as a striker,” he explained. “Apart from the system, Roma must put out the best qualities it has at its disposal and those include grit, the willingness to make sacrifices and teamwork.”


The Giallorossi will need all of those elements if they are to get a result away to on form Brescia this afternoon.


“Brescia are confident after their win at Reggina and they are extremely aggressive at the Stadio Rigamonti. Andrea Caracciolo and Gigi Di Biagio are back in the side, so it will be a tough test for us, but I want six points before Christmas.”