Roma coach Spalletti confident of crushing Bordeaux

October 1, 2008

BORDEAUX, France (AFP) - Roma coach Luciano Spalletti is confident his side can bounce back from their shock opening Champions League defeat with a win over Bordeaux here Wednesday.

The Italians lost out to relative Romanian unknowns Cluj a fortnight ago in Rome and currently sit 10th in Serie A, but Spalletti is undeterred.

“I believe my team has already improved over the last two or three matches, said the ex-Sampdoria boss on Tuesday.

“They have shown a good attitude, correct approach, attention - all the required ingredients.

“I’m confident. When we cross difficult moments like this we have to work, be professional and try to build strong foundations.”

Standing in their way is Laurent Blanc’s improving Bordeaux side, still smarting from a four-goal footballing lesson at the hands of Chelsea in the opening game.

And while the team from the famous wine-making region also hover mid-table in their league - despite being seen as title contenders - Spalletti remains cautious.

“We know Bordeaux can play different ways, and Laurent is very well known in football,” he said.

“We know they have great potential and can get good results with beautiful play,” said Spalletti, adding that a player of particular note is Bordeaux’s rising star Yoann Gourcuff.

For two teams that have lost their opening Champions League games Wednesday’s match has become something of a must-win, and the Italians’ task will be made all the more difficult without talisman Francesco Totti.

“It is crucial for both teams to get a result. I don’t know where the match will be decided but we have the morale and the desire to do well.”

Spalletti added: “It’s true we will be missing players, but it is not important who is not there. What is important is who is available.”

Written by: AFP

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