Claudio Ranieri is adamant that AS Roma can finish in the top-four this season, despite their dismal form at the moment.

Things are looking grim for the Giallorossi at the moment, with the team having lost their captain, Francesco Totti, to injury and having lost two games straight, including the upset by Livorno on Sunday.

However, Ranieri is determined to turn Roma's fortunes around, and sees improvement for his side if they train hard under him.

"The league is still long and it's obvious I would settle for a fourth place finish now," Ranieri told the press.

"I prefer to fight for it until the end. There are difficulties and I accept my responsibilities.

"I knew it would be difficult before coming here. But we have to work, work, work and give something more."

Ranieri is hoping that the Giallorossi can take a small step to redemption against Udinese. The teams clash on Wednesday night at the Stadio Friuli and the 'Tinkerman' has urged his team to play their best.

"We have to give our maximum this year. I don't like taking the fans for a ride. Every game has to be played at maximum level with the spirit of sacrifice," concluded the tactician.