The Roma club forward Eldor Shomurodov is becoming one of the main figures of the team during the most important phase of the season. The Italian specialist Claudio Ranieri has shown confidence in the Uzbek legionnaire, recently playing him in the starting lineup. This is helping to strengthen Shomurodov's position in Roma's attacking line.
Shomurodov has become a competitor for the main striker
The 29-year-old Uzbek footballer was previously seen as a substitute for Roma's main striker Artem Dovbik. However, in recent matches, Eldor is proving himself as a serious competitor.
In the match against Empoli, Shomurodov came onto the field from the first minutes and created several dangerous situations. His shots missed the goal several times, but he actively participated in team movements throughout the game.
Pellegrini: "Eldor was filled with rage"
Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini highly evaluated Eldor's actions and expressed his feelings on the field:
“Things would have been even better if Shomurodov had scored. He got a bit agitated in that situation, and I tried to calm him down by telling him that we could score again.
Eldor got really angry. He told me he wanted to tear the net with a powerful shot. However, sometimes calmness and precise action are important,” Pellegrini said.
Shomurodov may enter the starting lineup before the game against Athletic
Roma has an important game ahead. The return match against Athletic in Bilbao will be held to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Europa League. In the first match, Eldor's last-minute goal brought victory to Roma. This result gave the Romans a slight advantage.
Many experts and specialists believe that Ranieri should field Eldor in the starting lineup. Former Roma striker Chichcho Graziano expressed his opinion on this matter:
“I would choose Eldor Shomurodov as the main striker in the match in Spain. He runs a lot, always fights, and even if he doesn’t score, he gives his all for the team.”
Additionally, specialist Andrea Stramaccioni also noted that Shomurodov's position in Roma is becoming increasingly solid:
“Eldor Shomurodov's goal against Athletic at the Olimpico is of great importance. Previously, this player couldn't even change his clothes during the game. Although he came off the bench against the Bilbao team, he became an important player for the Romans. Initially, he caused the opponent to receive a red card, and then he scored the goal that brought his team a 2:1 victory. This is exactly the result of Claudio Ranieri's extensive work.”
Important game date
The return match to qualify for the Europa League quarter-finals will take place on March 13 in Spain. The match will start at 22:45 Tashkent time. The Roma team hopes to benefit from Eldor Shomurodov's contribution in this important game
