Ranieri off to a winning start with Roma

Newly-installed coach Claudio Ranieri admitted the points were more important than the performance following a debut victory at the helm of AS Roma.

Roma were 2-1 winners over Siena on Sunday in his first game in charge since replacing Luciano Spalletti. John Arne Riise's last-gasp goal secured a first win of the season for the Giallorossi.

"Despite the fact we were tense and a little afraid, we maintained our self-belief and got back on our feet," said Ranieri.

"It was an emotional debut. The important thing was to get the victory."

Patrick Vieira claims the current Internazionale side is the best he has played in during his time at the San Siro.

The Nerazzurri are aiming for a fourth successive Serie A title this season and, speaking after Sunday's 2-0 win over Parma, the France midfielder sees no reason why they can't claim the Scudetto again.

He explained: "There are strong sides, but we are the best.

"This is the best Inter I have seen in four years.

"We managed to stay calm as it was difficult to find spaces to play in, but in the final minutes we had more chances and scored goals.

"I am pleased, we deserved this victory."

Meanwhile, AC Milan coach Leonardo blamed Livorono's sub-standard pitch for Saturday's goalless draw.

The rookie coach has found himself under increasing pressure after leading the Rossoneri to just one win from their three opening Serie A games.

But rather than criticise his players, Leonardo blamed the playing surface at the Armando Picchi for their latest disappointment.

"We mainly lacked playing deep and our quality of holding up the ball in attack, but unfortunately it can happen on a difficult pitch like the one of Livorno," he declared.

"The approach to the second half was better. We created a lot, raised the defensive line and we were good enough to contain the opposition's counter-attacks."