MILAN - Stefano Pioli highlighted the positives from his opening game in charge as his side twice came from behind to earn a point in the derby against AC Milan. "I don't think we deserved to lose and I'm pleased with the spirit and desire the players showed on the pitch. I saw so many positives and an equal number of things that we have to work on," said the coach.
"I tried to give the side greater balance by moving Medel back into the centre of defence," revealed Pioli in justifying his team selection. "I also wanted to take the game to the opposition. It was one-way traffic in the first half but we didn't make the most of the chances we created. We allowed them to break on a few occasions but we knew tonight's performance was never going to be perfect. What mattered was showing heart and the lads did that tonight. Kondogbia looked good this week in training and I thought we'd need him to counteract the physicality of Kucka. Joao Mario can play anywhere, he's an intelligent player and has great movement. I like having a mobile midfield unit.
"We must work on being tighter both when we attack and defend," added the coach. "I liked our desire to close down the opposition although at times it was a slightly risky approach. The team responded as I expected they would but, as I said in my press conference, I'd already seen the right spirit this week in training. There's a lot of talent in the squad, they're all great professionals and we have huge room for improvement. We'll get better through hard work.
"We fashioned a lot of chances but have to be more clinical. You need quality to score goals but also determination. We must improve on that score. Besides that, although we didn't afford them too many opportunities, we still conceded twice so that's an area where we have to progress. The set-up is wonderful at Inter and I truly believe that together we'll plot a route back to where this club belongs."
Pioli was also asked about his celebration, as he ran onto the pitch to celebrate Inter's stoppage time equaliser: "I put a lot of passion into my work and I try to give everything. Similarly, I expect my players to give their all. I've come to Inter at the right time in my career and the fact that I supported this club growing up only gives me added motivation."
The coach also discussed his team's targets: "I believe we can make third spot and tonight we showed we have what it takes in terms of ability and mindset. It will be tough to make up the ground and we have to get a move on but we have the chance to be successful and we can compete with anyone in the league."
Finally a word on Gabriel Barbosa and Candreva: "Gabriel has excellent ability and is working very well. If he keeps going, he will get a chance. Antonio is a consummate professional and a terrific player. I believe he can only get better. He's already great but he has everything it takes to become a top player."
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