Spalletti Rules Out Pellegrini Start Against Sassuolo
Roma Coach Provides Injury Update
AS Roma boss Luciano Spalletti has revealed that Lorenzo Pellegrini will not be risked from the start in Saturday's Serie A match against Sassuolo. The Italian midfielder has been struggling with a muscular problem and missed Roma's last two games.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Spalletti said: "It would be wrong to start him tomorrow. He has a little problem that he's been carrying for a while. We don't want to risk further injury."
Pellegrini has been a key player for Roma this season, scoring seven goals and providing five assists in 25 appearances in all competitions. His absence will be a blow to the team, who are looking to maintain their push for a top-four finish.
Spalletti did not rule out the possibility of Pellegrini making an appearance as a substitute against Sassuolo.
"We'll see how he feels tomorrow," the coach said. "If he's feeling better, he could come on for the last 20 or 30 minutes."
More Roma Injury News
Spalletti also provided updates on other injured Roma players.
- Leonardo Spinazzola: The left-back is still recovering from a thigh injury and is not expected to return until next month.
- Chris Smalling: The center-back is also recovering from a thigh injury and is expected to miss the next two weeks.
- Nicolo Zaniolo: The forward is recovering from a knee injury and is not expected to return until the end of the season.
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