Roma wary of United 'tradition'

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti does not expect an easy ride against Manchester United in the quarter-finals of the Champions League but is convinced his team can upset the odds.

The Eternal City giants will host the Premier League leaders on April 3/4 before travelling to Old Trafford one week later.

“At this point of the competition, all the teams are strong,” said Spalletti.

“It would have been perhaps easier to have met a team like PSV Eindhoven but the truth is that all the teams that have made it to the last eight have proved to have a lot of character and determination.”

Roma beat Lyon 2-0 on aggregate to reach the quarter-final stages of the competition for the first time in the club’s history.

Spalletti is aware his team will face a mighty task as they take on Alex Ferguson’s side.

“Unlike us, Man Utd have a lot of experience in this competition and a lot of tradition,” said Spalletti.

“They are a very strong team, they have a young side that have individual quality, a big team spirit and is one of the most complete teams in the competition.

“But we have do what we did against Lyon, we have to be convinced for our worth and be optimistic about our chances.

“After all, our football is more technical and better tactically than English football.

“I have confidence in my team, we have every intention of going all the way.”

The Romans will have little time to prepare for the encounter against the Red Devils as only three days before they will face AC Milan in Serie A.

“It will certainly be good practice for the game against Man Utd,” said Spalletti.