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Italy and Roma icon Francesco Totti has praised Brighton and Hove Albion after the two sides were drawn against each other in the Europa League.

Totti has been speaking to Sport Mediaset, relayed by Planeta Roma, after Roberto de Zerbi’s side were paired with Roma in the last 16 of the Europa League yesterday.

Brighton are set to travel to the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday March 7th for the first leg of the clash before taking on the Italians at home a week later in what is arguably the draw of the round.

It will mean a return to Italy for manager Roberto de Zerbi, who knows all about Serie A sides having managed Sassuolo in the division from July 2018 to May 2021.

Brighton will be hoping that puts them at something of an advantage for this clash against a Roma side who have been revitalised under Daniele de Rossi since he replaced Jose Mourinho in the middle of January.

Totti certainly believes the Brighton coach will be well prepared for the double-header, sitting firmly on the fence despite being full of praise for the Seagulls.

“Brighton will be a tough opponent, prepared, coached by an Italian who knows our football,” he said.

“In England they are doing very well, so there is a 50% chance of passing or being eliminated.

“I think Daniele came on well and immediately managed to replace José Mourinho in the best possible way. Roma is a particular place to train, however I think he is doing very well.”