Projected Formations: Fiorentina v Roma

Normally cup matches are a great way to work in some of the younger guys and rotation players. However, some extenuating circumstances will likely mean that EDF runs out many of his regulars on Wednesday in Florence. In addition, with the Coppa Italia likely being Roma’s only legitimate shot at a trophy this season, a lot of turnover isn’t expected from EDF. On the same token, Di Francesco will likely use the Coppa match to build up some momentum heading into Sunday’s big game against Milan.

The extenuating circumstances are twofold for Roma. First, i Lupi will of course be without the same three players who were out injured on Sunday: Diego Perotti, Cengiz Ünder, and Juan Jesus. Additionally, Bryan Cristante and Steven N’Zonzi will be suspended for Sunday’s match, meaning there will likely be no rest for their weary legs until then.

Despite one of his worst performances in a Roma shirt, Robin Olsen is again expected to man the Giallorossi net. The Swede will try and shake off Sunday’s disappointing performance when he was beaten twice on his near post. Directly in front of him is where the most changes will likely take place from Sunday’s XI. Rick Karsdorp and Ivan Marcano will find their way back to the bench to be replaced by Alessandro Florenzi and Federico Fazio respectively. Meanwhile, Kostas Manolas and Aleksander Kolarov will retain their starting places.

Even with Daniele De Rossi back in action, it’s almost a forgone conclusion that N’Zonzi and Cristante will start again in the double pivot. The two of them will be out on yellow card suspension against Milan, meaning De Rossi’s legs will likely be saved.

With Perotti and Ünder both out injured and Justin Kluivert reportedly in EDF’s doghouse after Sunday, wing choices are again limited. Stephan El Shaarawy (1 goal) and Nicolo Zaniolo (2 assists) will likely get the nods again after contributing to Roma’s goal scoring exploits. After a subdued performance against Atalanta, Lorenzo Pellegrini is expected to be given the night off to deal with some minor issues. That means Javier Pastore will be given a start at the trequartista position.

Leading the line is expected to be Edin Dzeko, after he broke out his prolonged scoring drought with two goals against La Dea. However, Patrik Schick could push for a start.

Roma (4-2-3-1): Olsen; Florenzi, Fazio, Manolas, Kolarov; Nzonzi, Cristante; Zaniolo, Pastore, El Shaarawy; Dzeko. All Eusebio Di Francesco