Roma coach Luciano Spalletti defended his players after their scratchy 2-0 defeat of Catania.

"In a long and difficult season it is possible to have games where the players don't give 100 per cent. It is an involuntary but logical dip and trough route," said Spalletti.

Ludovic Giuly was on target today, along with Daniele de Rossi, but also wasted several golden opportunities.

"It's the same issue as with Vucinic. A few weeks ago everyone was demanding he play at all costs, then a slight dip in form and the same people wanted him shelved.

"To maintain the pace set by a squad like Inter, you need contributions from every player and they all did well today."