Totti struck twice in the second half to fire Roma to a 2-0 victory over their bitter rivals at the Stadio Olimpico.

"Totti is a great player," Montella said. "When he is in good condition, he can do great things and we are very lucky to have him.

"Lazio played well but we were very determined today and I think the best team won."

Totti, who had shaken off a thigh injury to recover in time for the game, could not hide his delight.

"I am very happy," the 34-year-old said. "To score two goals in the derby and win is a fantastic feeling. It has been a difficult time for us and it was important to get this win."

Roma went into the game on the back of a 3-0 midweek defeat at Shakhtar Donetsk which saw them crash out of the Champions League.

Totti hopes his team will be able to play in Europe's elite club competition next season, but they will have to finish in the top four in Serie A and are currently sixth, four points behind Udinese in fourth.

"To play next season in the Champions League is one of our aims," Totti said. "But we have to keep working because there are several teams that are also fighting to finish in the top four.

"There are nine games left to play and we will do all we can to achieve our aim.

"We will now enjoy this derby win but on Sunday we travel to Florence to play against Fiorentina looking for another victory."