Ranieri on Pellegrini pick and dangerous Roma ‘Achilles Heel’ with Eintracht in MD8

Claudio Ranieri explains why he chose Lorenzo Pellegrini to start for Roma against Eintracht Frankfurt, warning the greatest strength of the Germans ‘is also our Achilles Heel.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Braga-Lazio on the Liveblog.

Lorenzo Pellegrini returns to the starting XI with Paulo Dybala and Artem Dovbyk.

“Pellegrini is an important player, he has great technique and can make the difference,” Ranieri told Sky Sport Italia.

“Technically and tactically, he can score goals, provide assists, he runs hard and gives us a great deal, so it is right to put him in a position to give us what he is capable of.”

Ranieri looks to experience at Roma

Mats Hummels and Leandro Paredes had been practically pushed out of the squad under Ivan Juric, but have become key figures once Ranieri took over.

“I am counting a great deal on their experience. We want to go forward in Europe and it all depends on what we do this evening.”

The Stadio Olimpico is sold out once again, as Ranieri has also helped bridge the tension between club and supporters.

“Our fans are magnificent and we must give the maximum for them.”

While their Eternal City rivals Lazio are top of the table and the only side already guaranteed a place in the Round of 16, the Giallorossi go into this final matchday in 21^st position and at risk of early elimination from Europe.

They host high-flying Eintracht Frankfurt, who sit in second place and want to lock down a top eight finish as well as a strong draw going forward.

“We know that Eintracht Frankfurt will clam up and go on the counter-attack, they are very good on transitions, and we also know that is our Achilles Heel. We need to be very careful and focused,” concluded the coach.

“We will try to win and at least aim not to lose.”

A victory would suffice to get them into the play-offs.