Inter’s Slovakian international central defender Milan Skriniar, gave an exclusive interview to Italian broadcaster Sky Sports Italia speaking on all things Nerazzurri.
The former Sampdoria man started by talking about the preparations for Saturday’s Serie A game against Roma at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milano’s San Siro district.
“It is a very important match, an absolute must win. If we win we go 9 points above the Giallorossi. We lost many points to allow them [AC Milan] to catch up. We also could have won against Lazio but this is now all in the past. We can only look forward.”
Skriniar was then asked more specifically about how he was preparing to face Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko who is rumored to be joining the Nerazzurri next season.
“Dzeko is strong. I’ve always said he is a difficult opponent. He is strong and can shoot hard with both feet. We have to be careful and stay focused.”
The focus of the interview then moved towards the unity of the group, after the Mauro Icardi drama following him being stripped of the captaincy.
“We are all united. This is the time to stay focused and show that we are a group of strong men. It is not important who wears the captain’s armband, as it does not change the way you play. If I want to be captain? It’s not important, I know I always give my best.”
Skriniar also discussed this seasons objectives: “We’re only thinking about the Champions League, even if we have the desire to improve upon last years finish and trying to undermine Napoli’s place in second, but we are still far behind. We are missing a lot to challenge for the title, but next year we will aim higher, because it is where Inter deserves to be.”
Moving on to his relationship with De Vrij, the Slovak said: “We have all improved in defence. With Stefan we feel strong. He is a good friend, we are roommates and get along well.”
Finally, Skriniar responded to comparisons with Inter legend Walter Samuel: “He was a true wall, but this pleases me and gives me confidence to hear such comparisons from the fans. I am ready to become a reference point for Inter in the coming years.”
