Samir Handanovic has shared his views on how pre-season has went so far ahead of tomorrow’s first friendly match with Lugano.

“We are working extremely hard, but then we knew what to expect from Conte. I see my teammates all highly-motivated and ready for the challenge. I think our journey started two years ago with Luciano Spalletti and now we have strong foundations to build on,” the captain said at the press conference ahead of the game.

“As the Coach said, we mustn’t set limits for ourselves and it’s important to dream big. We require the spirit of sacrifice first and foremost to become a team.”

He then revealed his belief that Inter ‘can improve a great deal’ as a result of Gabriele Oriali’s return and the arrival of Antonio Conte as manager.

“We are happy that Lele Oriali has returned as team manager, because he is the link between the club and squad, he sees everything.

“He is here because we want to get back to having the values that were lost over the years. Players have duties towards the club too, they can’t just think they are allowed to do anything because they are talented. We can improve a great deal because of Oriali’s return and with Conte in charge.”

He was then asked for his views on the club’s decision regarding the future of Mauro Icardi and Radja Nainggolan.

“The club has been clear in its position, I do not need to add anything more.”

He then spoke on wearing the captain’s armband.

“I feel great pride in wearing the captain’s armband. My attitude has not changed, though. A captain is someone who takes responsibility and speaks when he has to, trying always to be fair. It takes many captains in a team, as one is not enough.”

He concluded: “On paper, this is a very strong side, but then you start playing. We must make the defence our greatest strength. We’re training for three at the back, even if Diego Godin hasn’t started work with us yet.”