Roma coach Rudi Garcia was adamant that his side must not be complacent when they face Empoli at the Stadio Olimpico.
The French boss also addressed the fitness of long-term absentees Kevin Strootman and Leandro Castan.
“Empoli cannot be underestimated, they are strong as a group,” said Garcia at the pre-match press conference.
“They also beat Sassuolo who are doing well.
“Our aim is to extend our winning streak and we must give 100 per cent out on the pitch”.
The Giallorossi coach also shed some light onto his squad’s fitness and his tactical plans for the future.
“We won’t always play with [Daniele] De Rossi in defence,” added Garcia.
“He will be useful in the future when he can play alongside [Seydou] Keita in midfield.
“If we are to have a great season, then it will also help if we can avoid long-term injuries like those suffered by Castan and Strootman in the past.
“I’ve never seen him [Strootman] so calm and collected, obviously his recovery will take time but we are optimistic.
“Castan is like a son to me and he’s still not at 100 per cent but he is working well.
“[Edin] Dzeko wasn’t fit enough to play for Bosnia and Herzegovina and he’s also not at 100 per cent but his fitness is improving.”
