GIALLOROSSI YORKSHIRE BLOG
Roma have had an unwanted, but frequent, association with ligament injuries over the last couple of years. The injuries have always seemed to strike the affected players at the worst possible times too. However, now two of those players are returning from their setbacks with a great something to offer the team.
Alessandro Florenzi and Emerson Palmieri have proven to be popular players among the Roma faithful. Florenzi is adored for his Roman heritage and his passion for the club he represents, whilst Emerson found a place in his supporters' hearts through an excellent 2016/17 season, in which he took the footballing world by surprise and showed himself to be a top level left back. However, just as both were approaching the peak of their powers, disaster struck. Florenzi was establishing himself as one of the hottest properties in world football, thanks to his versatility and technique. His unforgettable long-distance goal against Barcelona in the Champions League two seasons ago alerted the world to his star quality, and he continued to impress for the remainder of that term. His rise was set to continue even further in 2016/17, until an ACL injury put him on the sidelines for the majority of the season. Picking up the injury in an October clash with Sassuolo, he would play no further part in that campaign, as his injury recurred just as he was in training to return. During the time Florenzi missed on the pitch, his counterpart Emerson was establishing himself as one of the best left backs in Serie A. Emerson had a sensational season, playing either as a wing back in a 3-4-2-1 or as a full back in a 4-2-3-1. After a breakout campaign, and with age on his side, Emerson had revealed his potential to the world. But again, injury came at the cruellest time. In the final game of the season in which he had shone, he had to be replaced, with scans revealing he too had damaged his ACL. It came at a costly time, given that he had just switched allegiance to Italy, and was set to receive his first international call up. The injury meant he missed the important first pre-season under new head coach Eusebio Di Francesco, and the club bought a new left back (to replace the departing Mario Rui) in the shape of Aleksandar Kolarov. The Serbian has hit the ground running at his new club, meaning a return for Emerson could be less straight forward than he would have first imagined. However, the ability of Kolarov will benefit Emerson greatly. He will be able to learn from his teammate's vast experience, and won't need to be rushed back into the frame as he makes his comeback. This will be good for Emerson, as it will reduce the pressure on him and make his return more comfortable. Fortunately, we have reached the time where both men are making their returns. Florenzi has impressed since returning to the pitch, playing as either a right back or a right winger. Whilst still not 100% match fit, he has made important contributions to the team. For example, his left-footed cross to assist Edin Dzeko's goal against Verona - in his first league game since his comeback - was sublime. Florenzi's return certainly means a lot for Roma. Now vice-captain of the team, he provides another leadership option on the pitch. His constant effort is a major benefit to the team, as he works hard to help the team either regain possession, or create good chances when they do have the ball. Pre-injury, he was swiftly growing into a symbol of Roma, and now that he is back, he will be ready to continue the growth of that reputation. Emerson too will make a big difference once fully fit. This week, he has begun training with the Primavera, as his recovery enters an important stage. Over the next few weeks he will work hard on strengthening his body and regaining technique, before he will be able to return to the playing field. Once he is ready to play with the first team again, he will be a valuable member of the squad, just as he was in the previous campaign. Whilst Kolarov has impressed so far, he is starting to look a little tired, having started (and finished) every game. Kolarov's performances have made it difficult to decide who will be first choice when both are at full fitness, but at this stage, Emerson will provide a very good option to allow his teammate to rest. Further down the line, he will be ready to pose some serious questions to his head coach regarding selection. Florenzi and Emerson are two players that will have a big impact on the future of Roma, and it is important that the team makes good use of them. Recovery from injury is always a slow process, but when they are both fully fit, they are two great footballers, and ones that will help Roma achieve success this year.
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samuel bannister
Founder and editor of Giallorossi Yorkshire, who is also a columnist for Roma's official website about the women's team. Categories
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October 2019
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