We are conceding less goals but we need to score more, says Pjanic

Pjanic concern at Roma's lack of clinical finishing

Jan 25, 2013 9:40:00 PM

The Bosnia international feels the Giallorossi have improved defensively in recent weeks but was openly critical of his team's front men who he says have been shy in front of goal

AS Roma midfielder Miralem Pjanic believes his team need to score more goals if they are to challenge for a top-three spot in Serie A.

The capital side have not enjoyed a great start to the New Year with two defeats and one draw, and yet while they have the third worst defensive record in Serie A, the Bosnian feels it is in attack that his side need to improve.

“We are conceding fewer goals, but we need to be better up the other end," he told the Roma Channel.

“This team has a great future and we have certainly improved over the last few weeks.

“But, we have to believe in ourselves more and that will come from more victories. The team is playing well, but we are in trouble because we cannot score though we are creating opportunities.

“We must not give up though as there is still a long way to go in the season.

“We definitely have the potential to finish in the top three, we just have to work hard and believe we can do it because anything can happen."

The former Lyon player also outlined his team's intention to make the final of the Coppa Italia while he revealed the words of encouragement that he shared with under-fire teammate Panagiotis Tachtsidis, who was recently booed by his own supporters.

"In the second leg Inter will come at us," he continued.

"But, we want to reach the final and we will do everything to win this trophy, no matter who we have to play.

"I told him (Tachtsidis) that he must care for the pressure. We have all been there. It's the first time that it has happened to him and he does not know how to react.

"I talked a bit with him and I just said to focus on playing and do not listen to them."