Roma midfielder Mancini kept the Italian side in the race for the Serie A title and on the heels of Inter Milan thanks to his goal against Palermo on Saturday evening.

Alessandro Mancini's second-half header settled a tight encounter at the Stadio Olimpico as the Giallorossi moved to within four points of Inter - who don't play until Sunday - at the summit.

Leandro Rinaudo had been sent-off for Palermo just two minutes before Mancini struck the decisive blow.

Mancini said after the game: “I have not been training well and I struggled a little but now I think I have rediscovered some form.

“I hope I can continue and I hope Roma also continues to do well. Inter will have a tough game in Udine and Roma has to play their championship and never give up. Then we will see what happens.”