Gasperini: Roma want to ‘restore expectations’ on Ferguson | OneFootball

Gian Piero Gasperini says Roma want to ‘restore expectations’ placed on Evan Ferguson two years ago and warns the Giallorossi that Oliver Giroud can ‘still make the difference.’

Gasperini held a press conference on Wednesday, on the eve of a Europa League match against Lille.

Ferguson was one of the talking points as the Republic of Ireland international began the season as a starter, but he seems to have been overtaken by Artem Dovbyk in recent weeks.

Ferguson and Dovbyk’s growth ‘very important’ for Roma

ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma argues with Reda Belahyane of SS Lazio the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)

“Ferguson is a young player, born in 2004, who did very well two years ago,” Gasperini said via TMW.

“Last season, he struggled with injuries and a change of club in January, which meant he played little. The goal with him is to restore the expectations that were placed on him when he first broke through. He’s committed, and he and Dovbyk are alternating. Their growth, especially from a physical standpoint, is very important.”

Dovbyk has scored one goal in five games this season, while Ferguson has provided one assist in six appearances.

Roma won five of their opening six games across all competitions, but struggled more than expected to beat Verona 2-0 over the weekend.

“The fatigue against Verona wasn’t physical; it was more about motivation. It’s not easy to come out of a derby, which drains you emotionally, then play your first Europa League match, and then face Verona, who had greater sharpness,” Gasperini said.

“I don’t think it was a physical issue. Over the three games, you might think Verona are the lead difficult opponent, but they can turn out to be very, very tough.”

Matias Soulé has probably been Roma’s best player so far this season, and Gasperini is unsure whether to rest him against Lille.

“Up front, we have fewer alternatives given the absence of Dybala and Bailey, which forces us to use more or less the same players,” Gasperini said.

Gasperini praises Giroud

ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Gian Piero Gasperini head coach of AS Roma gestures during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)

“Today we’ll prepare the match and, as always, we’ll have at least a couple of solutions, whether from the start or during the game.”

Roma will face ex-Milan star Giroud, who returned to France in the summer.

“Tactically, the plan is not to let him get inside the box, even though he moves well everywhere,” concluded Gasperini.

“He’s done extraordinary things with Milan and even before in his career. He was decisive in Milan’s Scudetto win. A few years ago, age would have made players less competitive, but now in Italy and France, there are older players still making a big impact, largely thanks to physical condition. They train differently and are still able to make a difference.”