A dejected Antonio Conte spoke with Italian broadcaster Sky Sport Italia to share his thoughts following Inter’s elimination from the Champions League after having lost 2-1 to Barcelona.

“We had the chances to win the game but lacked that clinical edge to convert them. I have no complaints to make, as my players gave their all. We were chasing a goal but conceded and went 2-1 down which really killed us,” he said.

“I am sorry for the players because they gave everything they had and have been giving everything during a difficult period.

“I was also disappointed for the fans at San Siro, as they pushed us from start to finish and created a wonderful atmosphere. It should’ve ended differently.

“Looking at the group and our overall performances, I think we deserved more. However, when you don’t get out the other side, you need to roll your sleeves up and keep helping these lads to grow. It’s all valuable experience. We need to get back on our feet and start walking again.”

He was then asked if elimination is a good thing as it will enable the team to focus more on the league.

“We wanted to progress in the Champions League and felt we deserved it. There is disappointment from everyone right now, but as I told them, we have to raise our heads again.

“The team is doing remarkable things in a tough period. We have two games to go before the Christmas break and hopefully we can recover some players from injury. In this emergency situation, they did so well to cover the gaps. I saw a lot of disappointment in their eyes and I was sad about that.”