Roma coach Luciano Spalletti was happy with victory over Udinese.

Radja Nainggolan secured victory with a volley, but Edin Dzeko blasted a penalty over the bar, as usual specialist Diego Perotti was out injured.

“We were determined, had the right look in our eyes to take home the result. The nasty side-eye…" he told Sky Sport Italia.

“Naturally if you don't convert your chances, the opposition will fight back and you will start to fear those chances have been wasted.

“With all the forwards Udinese had on the pitch, we frankly could've avoided losing the ball so often and allowing them so many spaces to play in.

“In terms of mentality we have made big steps forward. Our only real problem was in the second half when we could've controlled it better and not given Udinese so many dangerous counter-attacks.

“In order to become a truly solid squad, as we saw throughout the first half of the season, you need this character, this focus and consistency throughout a game. I think we're finding that now.

“It might also be helped by the physicality of the midfielders, but if they don't contribute going forward and defending, it becomes difficult."