AS Roma coach Zdenek Zeman stood by his selection for Saturday's win over Fiorentina.

Zeman raised eyebrows by leaving Daniele De Rossi on the bench in favour of Panagiotis Tachtsidis despite returning from a three-match ban.

"Who was more convincing? It's difficult to evaluate, as Tachtsidis scored a goal and put in a good performance, even if he misplaced a few passes. De Rossi came on when we were already 3-2 up and was meant to protect the defence. Those are his characteristics.

"I always said I have a squad where anyone can play. There's bound to be controversy whatever I decide, but I have to make my choices. When I lose, then you can say they were the wrong choices.

"I am well aware nobody is happy when they don't get to play, but De Rossi is a professional and has already experienced situations like this."