His words: “It’s clear that this match was meant to truly examine the roster at hand. Certainly, we didn’t perform very well in the first half-hour.”

Leonardo Semplici spoke to the Mediaset microphones at the end of the Italian Cup defeat against Roma. Here are his words:

“Negative result, what signals did you receive?”

“It’s clear that this match served to properly assess the squad we have. Certainly, in the first half hour, we didn’t do very well. We have changed the format and returned to the one that best suits our players. Roma is a team of great value, quite different from ours. “We must seize this match as an opportunity to recover.”

Do you believe the team is good?

“I accepted the task because in my view, the team is good.” In defense, we are down two players and are struggling. We have made some adjustments. In this critical juncture, we must stand strong in an attempt to assess our team better and perform well.”

“What role does Silvestri play?” “Ghidotti will be the first. “Today, I chose Vismara for the Cup. Silvestri is currently injured and was not called up.” SEMPLICI IN PRESS CONFERENCE

What did you take away from this game? “I shouldered some responsibilities, I wanted to see some players I hadn’t used in the last game. I took a lot of risks, for some players it was their first game after a long time. Some were not at their best, but I wanted to give them room, letting them gain playing time. Unfortunately, we conceded a third goal, and we changed our strategy on the field. We also did a few good things, but it wasn’t easy against Roma. I take this as a lesson for myself and for the boys to throw ourselves back into what is our goal, the championship. We’re in crisis at the back, I’ve conducted a few experiments. “Although disappointed at the loss, this game could perhaps afford me better knowledge and improve the condition of starter players.’,” he suggests. “Did you attempt a new strategy? Do you now see more of the 3-5-2 formation? Are Pedrola and Akinsanmiro doing well?” His response, “The strategy was designed for Pedrola, he performs better on the wing and I wanted to put him in a position to express himself in a certain manner. For him, it was more of a game of sacrifice, but we knew that given the opponent. I needed to understand if the team was ready to sustain this type of play. In view of Roma’s strength, it was not the best match, but once we switched to a 3-5-2 formation, we were less at risk. We managed to score, and were more inclined to become what we aspire to be. Then our opponents limited us, but we never gave up even in difficulties and this comforts me and gives us hope. For Akinsanmiro, it’s just cramps. “Silvestri? A minor calf issue, stopped as a precaution,” reported.

What about Yepes, subtle symbol of a bounce-back in the second half?

“He played a good game, I’m happy.” For our category, we have a strong team. It’s clear we’re currently short-staffed at the back. I’m evaluating who may step up; there’s been good interplay, so let’s press on. “But I leave no one behind, I try to use everyone and I will evaluate the lineup on a game-by-game basis.”