Roma winger Stephan El Shaarawy admits no-one expected Jose Mourinho to arrive last summer.

El Shaarawy insists the players are happy playing for the Portuguese.

"It came out of the blue," El Shaarawy told the club's official website. “But then I understood the club had serious, ambitious plans.

“It's a long-term project but we're professionals and we must put every effort into obtaining good results as quickly as possible.

“Having a coach like him is hugely motivating and helps you find an extra gear. He's a brilliant man-motivator and he gets on so well with everyone in Trigoria, not just the players.

“He's the sort of coach you like listening to. He knows how to get you really fired up. I have a three-year contract and hopefully he'll stay here as long as possible."

He added: “He wants me to chase very aggressively when we're trying to win the ball back. He wants me to help out defensively too. He wants everyone to pull their weight to help regain possession."