APPIANO GENTILE - "I want to congratulate the lads who played in the Europa League because they performed very well in a tough place to go. They did really well." Before focusing on the trip to Chievo, Roberto Mancini looked back at the draw in Baku to praise his youngsters' performance.
"Tomorrow's match will be difficult but we need to continue down the path we've taken, because although we're disappointed with Sunday's result, we're on the right track to bounce back," began the coach. "We need to build on what we did in the first half against Udinese, in the knowledge that things can change from one moment to the next.
"It's important the side keeps believing and we maintain our calm. Despite our shortcomings and the mistakes we've made of late, I'm sure this team can offer a lot and will get results because the guys have very quickly taken on board the work we've done thus far. We need to try and pick up points, whilst maintaning our footballing philosophy. Chievo are a very good team and are on an unbeaten run, but we want to win the match. Two straight wins would be enough to turn things around."
There were a number of questions on individual players: "Hernanes is an experienced and quality player. He still needs to rediscover full fitness, but we can't afford to lose him again as he's a very important player in the team. Jonathan's not ready yet, he's begun training with us but he'll be back after the winter break. I have to thank Palacio because he's always available for selection despite still struggling with an ankle injury he picked up during the World Cup. Had we had other strikers available he probably would have been rested. He's an incredible professional and we have to thank him because he's doing everything he can to play his part. I hope he sorts out his injury concerns during the winter break because that's the main issue."
January is drawing nearer and unsurprisingly the transfer window is the hot topic at the moment: "I think about the team and obviously when you change the way you play, you do need some new faces. We'll see but I think the club are in a position to do something. I last spoke to Balotelli two years ago, before a match in London. I'm a big fan of Mario, I love the kid, and one day I hope to see him happy. I don't think Guarin and Icardi could be sold, what we need to do is cover the areas where we're short."
A word on Sylvinho, who arrived at Appiano yesterday: "He's a young guy, he played in a number of top sides and won it all. He's worked in Brazil, has great experience and can really be a useful addition for us."
Finally, Mancini discussed tomorrow's Europa League draw: "I don't have any preferences, we'll see what comes out. The Europa League is full of big clubs. The last-32 stage isn't until February, so we'll need to prepare well but other sides should also be wary of Inter."
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LIVE! CONFERENZA STAMPA ROBERTO MANCINI PRIMA DI CHIEVO VERONA-INTER 14.12.2014 H:12:00
