Roma chief Monchi has dismissed criticism from Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti.

Spalletti said Roma ought to be fighting for the Scudetto, as they were under his stewardship last season.

“I wasted three seconds of my life reading his comments," director of sport Monchi told Mediaset Premium.

“I don't like talking about things that do not have a positive impact on my squad. I have great respect for Luciano, we worked together for six weeks, but now I am concentrated on Roma.

“We are going into the most important period of the season, so let's focus on the pitch. It's about time everyone stays a little more quiet, as the future is important, but the present even more so.

“We are in the running for a Champions League spot and are in the Round of 16, which means a lot to me and the fans. Whatever happens in future, right now the important thing is the present.

“It's a difficult game against an Udinese side that is doing well since Massimo Oddo took over. We have the utmost faith in Eusebio Di Francesco, as he's working well."