26 Apr 2010 – 15:33:34

Roma head coach Claudio Ranieri has urged his players to retain the belief that they can pip Internazionale to the Serie A title this season.

A surprise 2-1 home defeat by Sampdoria left Roma two points behind Inter with three games to play and Ranieri remains upbeat about his side’s prospects.

He commented: “If we had drawn this match then it would’ve been the same thing – we were in charge of our own destiny and now we aren’t.

“I don’t know where Inter are likely to drop points. All I know is that we must give our all. The sad fact is our fate is no longer in our hands.

“The Scudetto will be decided in the final round. We have fallen and must get back on our feet. Luck was on our side in the derby, but not this time.

“We certainly need to end the season well. Inter are strong, so compliments go to them and to Roma for an impressive campaign.”