Gazzetta: Roma's title belief built on returning injured, youth growth and attacking record

Roma are approaching the resumption of the season with renewed optimism, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, which listed five reasons to believe in Gian Piero Gasperini's side's push toward the top of the table. The report says Gasperini aims to have his team at the summit by Christmas.

The Italian outlet reports that Roma's injury crisis is easing: Manu Koné has already returned against Sassuolo, while Svilar and Dybala are expected back after the international break, with Mancini and Rensch also set to be available for the trip to Parma. Gazzetta cites the goalkeeping impact, noting Roma conceded four goals in six games with Svilar and 17 in nine without him.

The report also points to the form of a young squad, including Soulé, Mora, Ghilardi, Lulli, Wesley, Castro and Pisilli, and to a unified atmosphere around the club. Roma sit third, two points off the top, with Gazzetta noting that the city rivals are both unbeaten after 11 rounds.

Gazzetta highlights Roma's attacking output of 31 goals in 11 matches, a club best at this stage and a personal record for Gasperini, with 14 different scorers and Donyell Malen already on 11 goals for the season.