Daniele De Rossi previews first leg of Europa League playoffs with ...

Roma head coach Daniele De Rossi addressed the media on the eve of the Giallorossi’s first Europa League playoff game with Feyenoord.

Upon the team’s arrival in Rotterdam, De Rossi spoke about tomorrow night’s match-up and his team selection.

“I’m happy to make my debut in Europe, it wasn’t predictable. February 14th is my daughter’s birthday and I was sacked by SPAL a year ago, now I’m here and I’m grateful. We are all lucky to be here, I am happy and satisfied and will take advantage of it.”

“Pellegrini? I evaluate him based on what I have seen since I have been here, both as a human being and as a leader to the others, I couldn’t be happier. He continues to improve, in every game and every practice he does more things.”

“I thank all my players for their effort and hard work,” he added.

On the differences between his Roma and Mourinho’s: “I studied Mourinho’s Roma a lot, before I was just a fan. In Europe they achieved great results, and got to the final twice in two consecutive seasons. Then each coach has his vision, his preferences. Each coach will give a different contribution.”

“Feyenoord? They’re a team that knows how to play football, I have great respect for them. They have very good wingers, with good pace. I expect a difficult match.”

“Some changes will be made, I have faith in all my players. I don’t like making 11 substitutions in Frosinone, and you put all those players who don’t play together in difficulty and you make a game of turnover. It’s not a great sight and you don’t put them in a position to succeed. I would never rotate the squad so drastically.”

“Cristante? He’s fine, he had some minor back problems. He always has them, but he came with us and is available.”