APPIANO GENTILE - Yuto Nagatomo has spoken about Inter's forthcoming game against Fiorentina and his future targets at club and international level, besides touching on a number of other topics, during an exclusive interview with Sky Italia today.
Looking ahead to the Nerazzurri's visit to the Stadio Franchi, the 27-year-old admitted: "It's going to be a tough game all right because Fiorentina are a top side. But we're preparing for it well and we hope to beat them."
The Japanese wing-back was then asked about the number of times he's been on the score sheet this season and what it meant to him to put on the captain's armband. He said: "I like scoring goals. I don't exactly play as a full-back in Mazzarri's system so I'd like to get even more.
"I've very honoured to have been able to wear the captain's armband and I'd like to thank everyone for helping me achieve that, including the fans and my team-mates."
The defender also spoke about his work ethic: "It's very important to work hard and it's something I enjoy doing. We're training well at the moment. I think we can qualify for Europe next season."
On his team-mates: "Hernanes' arrival has provided a boost for all of us. Zanetti is an incredible player, it's my ambition to become more like him - both as a footballer and a person. He's always looking out for everyone and I really like him."
Finally, Nagatomo commented briefly on president Thohir ("I'm very proud to have an Asian president") and his future at club level ("I want to stay at Inter for good") before casting his sights on next summer's World Cup with Japan: "We're improving a lot under Zaccheroni. I think we can do well."
