Roma coach Daniele de Rossi insists he's counting on Chris Smalling.

The former Manchester United defender has struggled with injury for much of this season.

But De Rossi said, "The running-in phase is coming to an end but maybe it's just my exaggerated concern. When you haven't played for a long time maybe the muscles are no longer used to certain rhythms.

"The physical stress of the match could be different. The idea was to put two guard dogs on either side of him to limit his range of action and I put him in a three-man defense to make him more comfortable.

"In Frosinone he entered, so as not to start immediately. He's starting after nine months. After all this time it's not easy, there's also emotion. He will be an important player for us in the future, regardless of the lineup."

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Rams sign first-round DE, complete draft class
Steelers QB Justin Fields focusing on 'little things' amid battle with Russell Wilson
Texans sign young offensive star to huge contract extension
Pistons confirm that key RFA forward underwent toe surgery
Pirates place left-hander, catcher on injured list
Mavs get good news on Maxi Kleber ahead of Game 4
Patriots exec discusses team's approach to QB competition
Braves to promote No. 3 prospect for MLB debut Wednesday
Diamondbacks release veteran infielder
Packers' former first-round pick planning to make 'monster leap'
NFLPA finalizing proposal for major change to offseason schedule
LeBron James shouts out Jaylen Brown after Celtics advance to NBA Finals
Pacers collapse down the stretch as Celtics sweep ECF
Hall of Famer, beloved broadcaster Bill Walton dead at 71
Jason Robertson leads Stars to comeback win over Oilers in Game 3
Despite recent form, Rafael Nadal's legacy is still gold standard for tennis
Bengals coach offers significant injury update on QB Joe Burrow
MLB officials expect automated ball-strike system to be implemented in 2026
Vikings reportedly considered Justin Jefferson trade during NFL Draft
A matured Kyrie Irving is finally proving to be the star we all knew he could be