This will be our turning point, says Spalletti

AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti insisted Saturday, on the eve of his club's crucial clash against champions Inter Milan, that this game could mark a turning point for his under-achievers.

Roma have had a disastrous start to the Serie A season, losing three and winning only two of their first six matches.

They sit down in 14th, and already six points behind potential title rivals such as Inter, third, and city rivals Lazio, top.

But Spalletti welcomes back club captain and talisman Francesco Totti to his side after injury and despite the unavailability of defenders Philippe Mexes and Cristian Panucci through suspension, he believes his side can start turning their season around: beginning on Sunday.

“Is this match a turning point? I believe it is and that would be the best response to the criticism we've received,” said Spalletti.

However, the coach refused to commit himself over whether or not Totti would play from the start.

“I need more time to think about that. I've seen his condition improve, for sure. He will certainly be a boost for us,” said Spalletti, who revealed that despite not being at peak condition both Juan and Alberto Aquilani would be involved.

“They're both available. Aquilani rested today due to a fever. Juan played with Brazil and he's trained well.”

Juan has started only one league match this season and his presence at the heart of defence has been sorely missed as Roma have one of the worst defensive records in the league.

Despite their troubles, Spalletti denied Inter had something more than his side.

“Absolutely not! We know what our strengths are and I'm sure that my players know what their level is,” he said.

“I don't want us to accept the results we've achieved or the standings. As we've already proved in the past, we're not missing anything to be able to beat the nerazzurri.”

Spalletti may be overshadowed by his opposite number on Sunday but said he felt no envy towards Jose Mourinho.

“I'm not jealous of anything to do with Mourinho. Of course he's top drawer, he's won things and he knows how to command respect.

“He's certainly got a lot of character.”

Mourinho for his part said he had no fears going into this match against a wounded beast.

“Fear? I don't know what that is,” he said. “It's a match we can win without a shadow of doubt.

“But Roma are strong, they're playing at home, they're six points back and don't want to drop to nine points behind.

“Looking at Roma from the outside I like them, they play with great quality, they're a team that try to prove that you can win by playing good football.

“But they're a team I think we can beat.”