Baptista prefers midfield spot

Baptista has been used a lot up front this season, but the 27-year-old is keen to move back to his original position.

“I’m very happy to be working with [Roma coach, Luciano] Spalletti,” he said to Globoesporte. “I prefer playing as a midfielder, behind the attackers.

“The people did not understand what I was saying at first. I prefer playing as a midfielder.

“The thing is that the three Roma attackers got injured and Spalletti thought about me, so I was being used in attack.

“However, the role I prefer is that in midfield, but it’s clear that if the coach needs someone in attack, I will not back down.”