Fabregas on new Como role for Nico Paz and joke ‘we could just defend’

Cesc Fabregas explains his unusual tactical changes with a new Nico Paz role for Como against Roma, but jokes he could ‘defend for the whole game today.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

Fabregas said after the 4-0 defeat to Inter that he would not change his approach, even if it was risky, but he has made some big adjustments this evening.

Some were forced, as Maxi Perrone is suspended, with Alvaro Morata, Sergi Roberto, Alberto Dossena and Edoardo Goldaniga injured.

Tasos Douvikas was expected to start upfront, but instead Nico Paz seems to be a False 9.

“Not much changes, it depends on the game, as Roma are aggressive and go man for man,” Fabregas told Sky Sport Italia.

“We played that way last season against Gasperini’s Atalanta, it went well. We need solutions, because Alvaro Morata is out for two months, Diao is heading to the Africa Cup of Nations tomorrow, so we will have only three players for four roles and must find options for the future.”

A victory here would put Como level on points with Roma in joint fourth place, and before the defeat to Inter, they had been unbeaten in 11 Serie A rounds.

These are the teams with the most aggressive press in Serie A so far this season, and the highest average possession statistics.

“We might change and defend for the whole game today,” joked Fabregas.

“We’ll see what we prepared. We are up against a great team, a great coach, and we must do very well to win here.”