Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi has welcomed their Europa League draw with AS Roma.

Brighton will meet Roma in the round of 16.

De Zerbi said of Roma coach De Rossi: "De Rossi is a friend of mine. Our daughters are great friends and I have always had great respect for him.

"I already knew before he arrived at Roma that he could be a great coach because even as a footballer he showed incredible character on the pitch and because his father is also a coach.

"He feels and breathes football like me, he has a big heart, he is a passionate person and as mentioned we are great friends. But obviously I hope to win..."

He added: "Roma are a tough opponent, but I want to keep my concentration on Everton, then we will also have the FA Cup match against Wolves. It will be a tough match against Roma, but if we want to move forward in the Europa League we know we have to play and win against anyone."