AS Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi says he deserves to be the highest paid in the country.
The Italy international is currently earning 6.5m per season at Roma - the most in the Italian game.
"Yes, I'm the highest paid player in Serie A," he told La Repubblica. "Yes, I earn 6.5m a season.
"And according to fans I should feel ashamed if I don't play well - as if I might go on to the pitch and not feel up for it.
"If a singer turns up in a Jaguar it's cool. If a player does it it's a bad thing.
"I've never delayed signing a contract extension. But there is a market and there is a value to each player.
"I haven't stolen anything.
"If Madonna earns a lot of money it's seen as a good thing, but a footballer shouldn't?
"I've always done my best for Roma. I'm proud to play here.
"Under Zeman, when I was not playing, I didn't cause any controversy. I'm proud of that."
