Roma’s new midfield approach paying early dividends

Despite fears that Roma's midfield couldn't handle the loss of Miralem Pjanic, it appears a new approach in the middle of the park is already paying off for the Lupi. Luciano Spalletti's side put in a solid performance against Porto in the first leg of their Champions League playoff round tie, earning a precious 1-1 draw in Portugal. The Lupi will be disappointed they didn't score more than the lone goal given how well they performed on the night, though Thomas Vermaelen's sending off played a big part in limiting their ventures forward later in the match. Despite that, the play of the Roma midfield is a big reason why the capital club will be confident heading into their opening Serie A match against Udinese on Saturday, and the return match with Porto on August 23. While Pjanic certainly added a different dimension to the middle of the park - he netted 12 goals and assisted on another 12 last season - the likes of Daniele De Rossi, Kevin Strootman and Radja Nainggolan offer a more physical presence. The Dutchman won the ball back countless times in Portugal, the Italian pressed and harassed the opposition into mistakes while the Belgian ran his socks off, even finishing the match as a full-back. Their play certainly brought a smile to Spalletti's face, though someone capable of making the final pass will be needed throughout the campaign. Fiorentina's Borja Valero could be that man, as the Italian has made it clear that his addition would help close the gap with Juventus. Cover is short given only Leandro Paredes is a real alternative, given Gerson needs time to settle while William Vainqueur is set to leave, but for the time being the Lupi will take solace in the great showings their star trio have put in thus far. Adapted from article in La Gazzetta dello Sport by Sebastiano Vernazza

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