It’s Europa League time again for Inter and this afternoon Walter Mazzarri previewed the match with journalists at a press conference.
The coach had this to say about tomorrow’s opponents: “We’ve studied Saint-Étienne because they’re doing very well in the French league and deserve our respect. Historically they’re one of France’s most prestigious sides. Saint-Étienne are a skilful, well-drilled outfit and we’ll do well to be wary of them.
“We want to carry on playing the way we did against Napoli. I want to see the same tactical and mental approach we showed then. I’m totally focused on the next game, as I always am. I don’t have time to think about other things. I’m trying to get the best out of the players I have to work with.”
The topic of conversation switched to French football in general. “Yes, I think the Italian and French leagues are similar. There are some top-quality sides, PSG being the most obvious example. They’re up there with the biggest teams in the world and they beat Barcelona recently. They’re now competing with the very best and of course they’re winning in their domestic league, although it’s still balanced. That means that Ligue 1 has improved.”
Back on Serie A and the heavy fixture list awaiting Inter in the coming weeks, Mazzarri admitted: “I’m working with my backroom team and the players to figure out how best to rotate according to the men we have available. That will be one factor to consider tomorrow.
“The booing? It only concerns me if it affects those who are playing. I think once we get over our injury problems we can give anyone a game. The hard thing is being consistent: we need to start with the same approach we had against Napoli. We’ve done that on other occasions this season too. If we’re able to play like that, we’ll be in the mix for third.”
Finally, a comment on Vidic: “I think he’s having a great season. He’s made a few mistakes but he’s not to blame for anything – not for the goals against Napoli nor any others. I never like to talk about blame.”
Source: inter.it
