APPIANO GENTILE – Last Sunday's win, the Europa League, the derby, the three-man defence, Antonio Cassano: these are some of the topics chewed over by Javier Zanetti during an interview he gave to Sky Sport 24 today.
"Fiorentina was our first win on home turf and we needed it - to get a bit of consistency going and to provide a response, the right response, against a great team," the Nerazzurri skipper explained.
He also had a few words to say about Andrea Stramaccioni's decision to switch to a three-man defence: "We spoke to the coach about the fact that with the qualities we have in this squad, three at the back might be a solution. And so it has proved over the last two games, when we've done well."
Attentions now turn to the Europa League: "Obviously the trip to Baku might be tiring but it's also important. We want to win there and only then start preparing for AC Milan. Which team is favourite going into this derby? It's a massive game with no favourites. What I can say is that we're in good shape and we're building a side that can last for a long time and be very successful. And of course winning the derby would give us even more confidence in our ability. Do I think about the fact it could be one of my last derbies? No, I don't. I'm just enjoying the moment. Would I like to score the matchwinner in the derby? That's something we all dream about..."
Zanetti then took a quick glance at the league table: "Juventus and Napoli are doing well and we're giving it everything to make sure we stay right up there with them, hoping they slip up."
Finally, the captain said a few words about Cassano: "He's a world-class player. He feels at home here and we're working to win lots of trophies together."