Gian Piero Gasperini stated that AS Roma aims to rekindle the high hopes surrounding Evan Ferguson from two years prior. He also cautioned the Giallorossi about Olivier Giroud`s continued ability to be a game-changer. Gasperini`s comments came during a press conference held on Wednesday, ahead of a Europa League fixture against Lille.
Evan Ferguson was a key topic of discussion. The Republic of Ireland international began the season in the starting lineup but has seemingly fallen behind Artem Dovbyk in recent weeks.
Gasperini Emphasizes Importance of Ferguson and Dovbyk`s Development for Roma
“Ferguson, born in 2004, is a promising young talent who performed exceptionally well two years ago,” Gasperini explained. “Last season was challenging for him due to injuries and a mid-season club transfer, which limited his playing time. The objective now is to revive the high expectations he garnered when he initially emerged. He is dedicated, and he and Dovbyk are currently rotating roles. Their physical development, in particular, is crucial.”
This season, Dovbyk has scored once in five matches, while Ferguson has registered one assist across six appearances.
Roma started the season strong, winning five of their first six matches in all competitions, but faced unexpected difficulties in securing a 2-0 victory against Verona last weekend.
Gasperini attributed the team`s struggles against Verona not to physical exhaustion, but to motivational factors. “It`s challenging to transition from an emotionally draining derby, then play your inaugural Europa League game, and subsequently face Verona, who possessed greater intensity,” he commented. “I don`t believe physical condition was the problem,” he added. “Among those three matches, one might initially underestimate Verona, but they can prove to be an extremely formidable opponent.”
Matias Soulé has arguably been Roma`s standout performer this season, leaving Gasperini contemplating whether to rest him for the Lille fixture. “With Dybala and Bailey sidelined, our attacking options are limited, compelling us to rely on largely the same players,” Gasperini noted.
Gasperini Commends Giroud`s Enduring Impact
“Today we will finalize our preparations for the match, and as usual, we will have multiple tactical approaches ready, either for the starting lineup or for in-game adjustments.”
Roma is set to face former Milan star Olivier Giroud, who made his return to France this summer. “Our tactical objective is to prevent him from entering the penalty area, despite his excellent movement across the pitch,” Gasperini concluded. “Giroud achieved remarkable feats with Milan and throughout his career, notably playing a crucial role in Milan`s Scudetto triumph. While in the past, age often diminished a player`s competitiveness, today, both in Italy and France, many veteran players continue to exert significant influence, primarily due to superior physical conditioning. They adopt different training methods, enabling them to consistently impact games.”
