Inter have four players to thank for their recent upturn in form amidst the controversy surrounding Mauro Icardi, Gazzetta dello Sport suggested today.
Icardi has dominated the headlines since being stripped of the captaincy last week, with many expecting Luciano Spalletti’s side to disintegrate as a result of the media circus surrounding the club.
However they have instead put together a four-match winning streak in all competitions, and for that they must thank Ivan Perisic, Radja Nainggolan, Lautaro Martinez and Matias Vecino.
“With Icardi out of action, Perisic has picked the team up and become a decisive player again,” Gazzetta wrote.
“It was less than a month ago he wanted to take his Inter jersey off, cross the ocean and settle down in London [where Arsenal were interested in signing him].
“However, having shelved the tension with supporters, reset his mind and become a central figure in the dressing room again, now he is not putting a foot wrong.
“A lot has been said about Nainggolan in recent weeks, perhaps everything, but losing a few kilos and rediscovering his confidence have got him back on track.
“The opportunity to play as Inter’s first-choice striker has changed Lautaro’s season, while the Europa League tie with Rapid Vienna has regenerated Matias Vecino as well.
“Matias is now playing consistently again and on Thursday he scored the second goal at San Siro, as well as speeding up Inter’s build-up play, which is a rare occurrence.”
