Day 5, Ephesus and at sea – Another action-packed day aboard the Navigator of the Seas for Javier Zanetti: plenty of things to do and lots of affection, lots and lots in fact, from the fans aboard who kept him company... when he was topping up his tan and when he made his second appearance on stage to sign autographs and pose for photographs.
But it wasn't only fun and games for 'Il Capitano'. First things first –
he has to think about getting back to full fitness. He was visited
by Inter's chief of medical staff Dr. Franco Combi, who confirmed that Javier's
recovery is going well and told him he no longer needs to wear his protective brace. That means Zanetti can start to wear normal shoes
again and, as well as continuing his physiotherapy, can start to work more on building
up his strength. Besides Dr. Combi there's also a physiotherapist on the Royal Caribbean ship hosting
the Inter Cruise.
Zanetti then chatted to Roberto Scarpini, during an interview for Inter Channel, reiterating just how focused he is on getting playing again: "The most important thing is that I’ve taken off the protective brace. I can now walk wearing normal shoes and can also start to exercise. Things are going in the right direction. I’ll be in America for sure. I’ve already spoken with the doctor about it. Our aim is to get me back running when we’re there."
So many questions, so much interest - about Inter’s new coach, possible new team-mates and the club's targets for the future: "I’ve already spoken to Mazzarri. He’s a coach who always does his homework. He’s done well wherever he’s been, so I hope he does well here too. We’re really determined to bounce back. We have our sights set high, a club such as Inter deserves to be there. There are a lot of youngsters here who made a big impact last season – they are the future and the present of the club. Campagnaro? A fantastic defender. Icardi? A very promising young player. They will be able to do well here. Belfodil? A good prospect. Andreolli? I’ve watched him improve. Now he’s back at the club, so let’s hope he can play his part in a successful season. What does this Inter side want to achieve? The desire of everyone, from the president to the fans, is to get back to winning ways and win an important trophy."
Finally, a comment on the cruise: "I’ve met people who have a lot of
passion and enthusiasm and I’d like to thank Royal Caribbean who have been our
hosts on this fantastic ship. Thanks for the affection that you’ve all shown me and my family." No, thank you Capitano. Thanks for all the
excitement you’ve always given us - and will continue to give us.
