Heinze desperate for derby success

Roma defender Gabriel Heinze has admitted that he is looking forward to facing cross-town rivals Lazio, and has set his sights on three points.

The veteran defender joined the Stadio Olimpico outfit from Olympique Marseille in the June, and will play in his first Roman derby when the Serie A resumes after the international break.

With Luis Enrique’s side starting the campaign slowly, the Argentina international has singled out a victory as a must come next Sunday.

“I’m just interested in the points, I want to win,” Heinze told Corriere dello Sport.

“We know that the derby is played in a particular context, but for us the three points is the main (thing). Winning is the goal.”

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid man was linked with a move to Edy Reja’s side before he joined Roma, but claims this was only speculation.

“I did not refuse to go to Lazio. Personally, I have not had any contact with them. When I realised how real the possibility of playing in Rome was, I just wanted to go to Roma,” he said.

“I’m fine, in a beautiful city. I’m fortunate to have played in many major championships. The last dream I had was to come here and play in Italy. ”

“I am very happy to be in Rome. I’m settling into this new football style and in this new country with new customs and traditions.”

Only goal difference separates the sides on the table, with Roma narrowly ahead of Lazio in sixth.