New Roma signing John Arne Riise admits Aston Villa striker John Carew urged him to take the chance on moving to Italy's capital.

The former Liverpool fullback said: "I spoke to John and he said good things about the atmosphere.

"I have only just arrived and I immediately feel at home. The city is very beautiful and the weather is splendid - it's even warm at nine o'clock in the morning."

Riise also remarked: "I wanted a new experience and to get to know a new type of football.

"I chose Roma because they are a great club with great fans and they won the Coppa Italia.

"I met the Coach and I will listen to him and try to give my best. The passion of Luciano Spalletti struck me and now I will try and learn Italian so that I can get to work.

"I'm the kind of player who gives everything he has for the team and I want to thank my new boss for wanting me here.

"Roma have experienced players. I know Ludovic Giuly from my time at Monaco where we played together and Francesco Totti is a phenomenon.

"Then there's Daniele De Rossi, who is one of the best midfielders in Europe and who is growing into a truly great player."