Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso has admitted admiration for Daniele de Rossi.

Bayer meet Roma in the first-leg of their Europa League semifinal.

Xabi said: “I see a lot of similarities. We are from the same generation, he's a player who had a great career with both Roma and Italy.

"I am really pleased to see former players who have gone down this route as a coach.

“Roma are playing very well and have some great players, it will be an excellent match."