MILAN - James 'Jimmy' Conrad played as a defender for the USA for thirteen years. He played in the 1-1 draw against Italy in the 2006 World Cup in Germany and against Zanetti and Cambiasso's Argentina in the 2007 Copa America. Now 37, he works for Kick TV, a web-based channel with millions of subscribers. He's in Milan to tell American soccer fans all about the derby.
What do Americans think of Inter?
"It's a club which commands a lot of respect, we like their history, the tradition of the Nerazzurri is something we lack in US soccer. The game is still very young in our country. I believe Inter will become steadily more famous, in some ways my job is to help Italian soccer become even more well-known."
American and Italian fans watch sport in different ways...
"In Italy, everyone - including the press - thinks the result is more important than we do. The derby is a great occasion, I see the fans waiting for it and I understand that whoever wins can hold their heads high. We're documenting all of this."
You live in New York, what recognition did Inter Campus get at the UN?
"People immediately saw who president Massimo Moratti was. It was a great chance to show people what he's about and his club's philosophy. He's the opposite of Berlusconi!"
What have you, as an ex-player, made of the last few matches?
"You can understand a lot from them. It's not just something people say, Inter need time. They had great players who have since left, and it's not always easy when you need to change, especially when age comes into it. The remaining players must get used to their younger team-mates, there's a strong generational gap, but it's not only in football. Andrea Stramaccioni is young, he's got a tough task, I don't envy him. He needs to get his side to gel and live with the pressure, the need to win. I think he's doing really well, considering the difficulties he's faced this season."
