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The Nerazzurri are back at the Meazza on Monday night to host Fiorentina in what may be a pivotal point in Inter’s season and their Champions League aspirations.

After the spirited showing against Milan in the derby, Inter then went on to get knocked out of the Europa League in spectacularly embarrassing fashion by squandering a two goal lead to minnows Hapoel Be’er Sheva.

Stefano Pioli’s project can now put the EL behind it and focus solely on the Serie A. The match against Fiorentina will continue Pioli’s baptism of fire but the Italian tactician will realise that a result here can go a long way in setting the right tone to his tenure on the Inter bench. Expect pretty much the same tactics as those against Milan, with either Joao Mario or Marcelo Brozovic pushing up right behind Mauro Icardi and Antonio Candreva pushing inside and not just working on the side line.

Team News

The big piece of news regarding the squad has to be the loss of Gary Medel to injury until at least after the winter break. The Chilean international was deployed by Pioli at the centre of defence in the derby, which means that his absence all but guarantees Jeison Murillo place in the starting eleven. It also appears that Geoffrey Kondogbia will receive an extension on his vote of confidence and will slot in the midfield two ahead of defence alongside either Marcelo Brozovic or Joao Mario.

Probable Inter line-up (subject to change): (4-2-3-1) Handanovic; Ansaldi, Miranda, Murillo, D’Ambrosio; Kondogbia, Brozovic; Candreva, Joao Mario, Perisic, Icardi (C).

Stats

Last Season: Inter 1 – 4 Fiorentina

Last 10 Head to Head: In the last ten Serie A encounters Fiorentina edge Inter slightly having won five matches to Inter’s four.

Player to Watch:

Antonio Candreva: The Italian international winger has been in the spotlight ever since his ex-manager took the reins at Inter. His performance and slightly modified position on the pitch have been noteworthy in the derby. It appears that Pioli intends for Candreva to play a bigger role in Inter’s attacking play.

Officials

Referee: Antonio Damato Assistants: Meli, Barbirati Fourth Official: Di Fiore Additional Assistants: Doveri and Di Bello

Prediction & Authors Note

Prediction & scorers: Inter 2-2 Fiorentina  with Icardi and Candreva getting the goals.

Author’s Note: Fiorentina are never an easy opponent, with quick passing, high pressing dynamic football. Pioli will have to ensure that Kondogbia is alert all through the 90 minutes to provide the much needed midfield cover to the defence.

Words: Mo Nassar – Follow him @MNassar