Belgium international Radja Nainggolan says Roma must be 100% focused on the task at hand when they face BATE Borisov tomorrow if they are to come away with a crucial first Champions League victory of the season.

With the Giallorossi going into the game with a reduced squad due to injury, the midfield schemer also stressed that is happy to play in a different position if needed for the good of the team.

With other midfielders missing tomorrow you’re going to have to play on through gritted teeth.
“That’s not a problem for me. It’s the Champions League and a vital game for us if we want to go through. We have to show what we’re about when we take to the pitch and give everything we’ve got for the team. We all have to go out there totally focused on our objective, which is trying to win.”

Keita won’t be involved so you might play in the holding role tomorrow. Is that a position you’d like to play in in future?
“I’m a player and I’m here to do whatever is needed. Just playing is important to me but the boss decides where to put me. I’ve played in that role several times before. Obviously it’s not my natural position but you learn every time you play. If and when the coach calls me, I’ll go out there and perform to the best of my ability.”

How do you feel fitness-wise compared to last season?
“I’ve had a few more problems this time around. I had more rest last season because I wasn’t playing for Belgium as I have been in the last few months. With the physique I have I need to train more to be in peak form but I’m slowly getting back to 100%. I want to play every game so I try not to think about being tired, but I’m human so I do feel it sometimes. What matters is that I always give everything I can and focus on doing my duty as a player.”

Is Totti sad at the moment?
“Suffering two injuries just a few days apart is enough to make anyone sad but he’s always a cheery, optimistic character. Now he’s totally focused on recovering and getting himself fit again as quickly as possible.”

Source:   asroma.it