Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti has shared his thoughts on Inter’s Europa League round of 16 draw that has seen them pitted up against German side Eintracht Frankfurt.

Frankfurt will host the first leg on March 7 and the reverse fixture will take place at San Siro on March 14, a week before the second Milan derby of the season, something Zanetti thinks is beneficial.

“Playing at home before the derby can be a good thing. However, we must prepare in the best way possible to progress because German teams are always hard to beat,” he told broadcaster Sky Sport.

“Inter must always aim to go far, there are requirements to do well but there are also many other teams who are well equipped.”

The Argentine was then asked about the situation of Mauro Icardi.

“Icardi is still an important player for us and I hope that he continues to be so. If there are problems within the dressing room, then you need to confront them and resolve them internally.

“That’s how you create a stronger group with the ideal conditions to succeed. It’s a shame about the situation that’s been created, but there are things that are resolved internally and that must be clarified by always thinking about the good of the team.

“Everyone is important, but no one is more than important than the team. I still haven’t spoken with Mauro. Things must play out within the group.”

He quickly returned to discuss Inter’s upcoming Europa League opponents: “Eintracht are a tough team to beat but we’ve grown a lot and we’re still improving. That’s what is needed to progress.”

He concluded the interview by speaking on the captain’s armband that now belongs to Samir Handanovic.

“The armband is important. It means that you set an example for your teammates and that they respect you for your actions both on and off the pitch.

“You need to respect it, as Handanovic has already said. However, we must now get back to thinking about our upcoming matches. The team cares a lot about the Europa League.”