Lamela optimistic of Roma rise

Roma starlet Erik Lamela insisted he is enjoying his football at the club, and has not given up hopes of a top-three finish this season.

The Argentina striker has been a major positive in an inconsistent campaign for the Italian capital club, with 11 goals in 22 Serie A appearances.

The 20-year-old’s form has caught the attention of a number of clubs across Europe, with Manchester City thought to be particularly interested after Roberto Mancini watched him against Sampdoria.

However, Lamela himself has insisted his sole focus at present is helping Roma reach the top three, telling La Gazzetta dello Sport: “Thanks to my family I am calm, and I think I’m doing pretty well, but I can do better with the help of my companions. I am happy at Roma, and we are on the rise.

“The most important thing is that we are each contributing (to victories). Now, we have the match against Udinese, which is important for our continuity and to help us climb the rankings. Even though we have lost a lot of games, third place is still close. It depends on us.”

Lamela’s pace and attacking flair has seen him compared with the likes of Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo in recent weeks, but the Florida-born player insisted he has plenty of work to do before he can emulate the Real Madrid duo.

“Am I like Kaka or Ronaldo? I am well behind them in terms of achievement, but I know I can give more. If you work and commit, you can improve,” he said.