Roma coach Luciano Spalletti lavished praise on midfielder Radja Nainggolan, describing the Belgian as a thoroughbred after his two-goal performance in the 4-0 win over Sampdoria.

“He’s on another level – a great player who can play anywhere you put him,” Spalletti told reporters after Thursday night’s Coppa Italia round of 16 tie.

“He needs space though because that’s when he really comes into his element. If you pen him in, he finds it harder. When he’s able to play on instinct, he becomes a real handful.”

Nainggolan has been the driving force in midfield this season, leading Roma to second in the Serie A table, one point behind leaders Juventus.

His first effort against Sampdoria was one of the best goals of the season in Italy as he met a misplaced clearance with a first-time volley which dipped wickedly into the net.

Spalletti also found some praise for striker Edin Dzeko, who he has criticised in the past.

“Edin is a splendid player. I’ve said certain things to make the players understand that they must never be satisfied,” he said.

“He is divine because with the build he’s got, with his height and his physique, it’s not easy to be so graceful and well coordinated.

“He’s a wonderful athlete to watch.”

Quarter-finals
Napoli vs Fiorentina - January 24
Juve vs Milan - January 25
Inter vs Lazio - January 31
Roma vs Cesena - February 1