Juventus striker Carlos Tevez has admitted that he is surprised by Roma's strong start to the season.

Tevez and his teammates are currently ahead of Roma at the top the Serie A table on goal difference, though that could change on Sunday when the sides meet in Turin.

When asked if he could have envisaged Roma enjoying such a positive opening to the campaign, the Argentine told Corriere dello Sport: "Honestly, no, I did not see Roma as our main rivals. It has been a surprise. I did not think they were so strong.

"This year they are closer, the gap has shrunk. Garcia has shown that they can be calm in all competitions. To me they are much stronger now."

Tevez has scored six goals in six games for Juventus so far this season.