APPIANO GENTILE – Stefano Pioli has declared that Wednesday’s visit of Lazio is a vital match if Inter are to continue their climb up the Serie A table.
"We have a very important game tomorrow and we’ve prepared for it well," said the Inter boss, speaking in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. "It’s the last game of the year but the season isn’t over – we have room for improvement but the only thing that counts is performing well tomorrow night."
Pioli acknowledged that it would be a tough contest against a Lazio side in fine form.
"They’ll be tricky opposition for all the sides looking to qualify for the Champions League. They’re able to prepare well for every game given that they’re not in Europe this year.
"We’re working hard to improve and secure the kind of results that’ll enable us to be where we want to be at the end of the season. We’ve looked good up front thus far, but we can be more clinical in attack. If you don’t concede it’s easier to win football matches, so that’s something we need to work towards.
"Obviously without bits of individual brilliance it’s tough to win, but we have that in our squad and it will help us – as will sticking to our game plan. It’s results that determine your league standing and give you the confidence to improve, so tomorrow the result is key."
It will be the first time Pioli has faced formed club Lazio since departing the Rome-based club, but the Inter coach is uninterested in the side story.
"It was an intense two years and an important experience for me, but I’m 100% focused on Inter now. The past is the past and the present is looking great."
Pioli also deflected talk of the transfer market, preferring to focus on the players in the current squad.
"We have to adhere to certain limits and perhaps we’re lacking a couple of players, but we have a competitive squad. I’ve always selected the players that are most reliable from both a physical and mental point of view.
"Kondogbia looks determined to help the team and that’s the only thing that counts. The club is mindful of the situation regarding Felipe Melo’s suspension, so we’ll see how it develops. Medel is important in my game plan – I have real confidence in his ability but I have faith in the whole squad. We’ll try to get him back fit during the winter break."
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