Inter coach Antonio Conte spoke to gathered reporters at a press conference today after the Nerazzurri’s vital 2-1 win over SPAL, with Italian media outlet FcInterNews in attendance.
“Having 37 points after 14 games must give us enthusiasm, it must make us proud. But at the same time there is the enthusiasm that must be created and there are things around us that must not be negative, otherwise it can lead you to be presumptuous, to think you are stronger than the others.”
“This must not happen. The fact that we can play for the round of 16 of the Champions League and the record in the league must give us the incentive to continue on this path. I’ll never stop thanking the guys for their availability from the first day of the training camp, the result reinforces our work.”
He touched on whether winning games even with a reduced strength squad is a signal that the club can win the league title or not.
“I hope to have all my players available as soon as possible because there are players injured. I hope they can come back and come back with us to do what they were doing. That’s my first wish, I’d be crazy not to wish that.”
“Seeing the glass half full, for a month and a half we have had difficulties in terms of depth to play in both the league and the Champions League, many players are becoming even more responsible.”
“Feeling the need to take responsibility and raise their level to make up for certain moments. This is the glass half full, then I hope to have the full squad available as soon as possible to rotate and be calmer.”
The 50-year-old Italian coach also discussed the physical conditions of Roberto Gagliardini and Antonio Candreva.
“Nothing in particular, at least Candreva has nothing particular. Gagliardini had this problem with his foot, we’ll evaluate him later.”
The former Juventus and Chelsea coach then spoke about whether or not he expected his squad to be top of the league table after 14 games.
“Surely it is a nice surprise, after 14 games we are in the lead because we have won games at an impressive pace. The surprise, the nice surprise remains. We try to enjoy it in the right way, what we are doing must bring enthusiasm and must make us work with enthusiasm.”
“We must be happy with what we are doing but know that it is the result of the sacrifice of the players, their availability. We have to grow even more, this enthusiasm should not lead us to think that we have become better already but give our best still.”
Finally, Conte spoke about the chants and songs from the fans at the end of the first half praising him and his work.
“I’m pleased, but I’ve always been very well received. I think that our fans are happy with my work and that of the players. I think that’s the best satisfaction when you’re given the job. It’s nice to have an important boost like that from our fans, so let’s continue with this team all together to be satisfied and credible.”
