Zeman confident of Roma hire

Pescara coach Zdenek Zeman has confirmed that negotiations for his appointment as Roma’s new coach are ‘at an advanced stage’.

The 65-year-old has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of the capital city club after Luis Enrique parted company just one year into his contract.

Roma director Walter Sabatini has said that Zeman was favoured for the coaching position, and the Czech trainer echoed those comments.

“I have spoken with Roma and I think that talks are at an advanced stage,” Zeman told Sky Sport Italia.

Questioned about the role that Roma captain Francesco Totti could have under him, Zeman stated that the 35-year-old may still be a key member of the team.

“If Totti demonstrates he is the best in his position, he will always play,” Zeman explained. “What matters is how he plays, not his name.

“I like players who want to improve and they can do it if they are 18 years old just as they can do it if they are 30.

“If someone is performing well, they will play, if not, they will not play, regardless of name, surname and age.”

Zeman, who guided Pescara to Serie A promotion this year, coached Roma between 1997 and 1999.