AS Roma defender Chris Smalling insists their Europa League playoff with RB Salzburg remains alive.

Roma lost the first-leg 1-0 in Austria, with Smalling speaking with reporters in the mixed zone afterwards.

An undeserved defeat, what does it take to reverse it next Thursday?

"Conceding late goals is always tough, it's a shame because we had 2-3 chances. Now we'll have to analyze the match. We'll have to push on Thursday, but we'll be able to count on our fans."

How much do Roma care about this cup?

"Yes, especially after the elimination from the Italian Cup, we care a lot about this cup. We want to go on, like last year. Now we're on to Sunday and then we want to go through."

Is the Roma squad ready for two competitions?

"I think so. Last year too we played many games, we won the cup. We showed that whoever comes on can make the difference, so I think we will be able to manage the double commitment as we have done lately."