APPIANO GENTILE - Ahead of tomorrow evening’s match against Atalanta at the Stadio Meazza, Luciano Spalletti held his pre-match press conference this afternoon.
The opening words from the coach were in regard to the superb Nerazzurri support that has been on show at home this season: “The players want to contribute towards the engagement shown by the Inter fans, aiming to entertain with a real sense of professionalism. We are delighted to receive their affection. We want to act on our responsibilities. Years ago you had to attend matches to see your favourite players because otherwise you would not have had the chance. Things have now changed and the players are much more accessible, however the fans are still coming to the stadium and this is important. I would like you to experience it from the bench. Inter is a unique thing and there is a need to show high levels of quality out on the pitch. We have 50 or 60,000 fans at the San Siro for every match. We must never let our support down.”
Speaking about the Azzurri’s recent failure to qualify for the World Cup, Spalletti said: “The Azzurri must not hide from the disappointment linked to the National Team, on the contrary they need a reaction. We must not have weaknesses in terms of character. We must react. Our footballing style has value and there is no need to copy other models. You only need to look at our past."
For the remainder of the season, the tactician stressed the importance of squad depth: “Since the start of the season we’ve needed guaranteed starters within the team. We had to find a bit of solidity, and I believe that this can now keep growing. There are other players within the squad that can now step up to replace those who've featured most. Especially during this period where we’ll have midweek fixtures, we’ll need to rely on other players and have to work in the right manner to make sure that they’re ready. This team have shown that they have substance and solidity, although we do need help from the entire squad. The way in which the players work is great and very proper. We must achieve results and can't afford to drop any points. The others run and run hard. Our players have proven themselves to be strong on the pitch and also mentally, working incredibly hard in the process.
As for individuals: “Dalbert? there are many players competing in his position. Nagatomo and D’Ambrosio have played there, while we also have Santon, who I like a lot. He understands football and knows how to attack and defend. He is someone who can help us considerbly."
In terms of analysing tomorrow evening’s opponents: “Atalanta are a good team with high standards. They also have a strong physical structure and some of their individuals are physically like that of basketball players. If you are not physical off the ball then you’ll struggle. They revel in individual duels, Gasperini is very good at this. It'll be hard if we are not ready to withstand the physical aspect. It is clear that we can create spaces and try to play, although we must do well in trying to seek out chances. At times you have to make the most of a free ball.”
The coach also revealed that the entire squad will be available for tomorrow’s encounter: “Mauro has even recovered. He had a small problem but trained in parts. Our latest two tough training sessions have served him well. His knee did not swell again. Mauro is one of those players who sees just one match as not enough. He wants to play two."
Lastly, Spalletti commented on the vacant coaching role at the National Team: “I want and have to work well for Inter. For the future, I could see Ancelotti doing well, he has the charisma and experience, while everyone is aware of his work. You need to aim for the best and he is the best.”
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