Former Inter goalkeeper Sebastien Frey has shared his belief it is important that Inter have a player like Samir Handanovic in their ranks.

The 35-year-old shot-stopper has been with the club since the Summer of 2013 and has been virtually ever present for the side ever since.

Little over a year ago he was handed the club captaincy after Mauro Icardi was stripped of it and although not the most vocal, Frey believes that Handanovic is deeply respected by his peers.

“I think Samir has earned the respect and the captain’s armband on the field,” Frey explained in an interview with Italian broadcaster Sport Mediaset earlier on today.

“We can call him a silent leader, maybe he is less charismatic than someone but he has earned the respect of everyone with his performances. Inter need such a player.”

There has been a lot of speculation in the media as of late regarding who will be Handanovic’s back-up from next season and Frey went on to discuss one player who has been suggested, Ionut Andrei Radu, who is currently out on loan at Parma from Inter.

“What has happened to Radu has surprised me. He did good at Genoa but was made a victim of their situation and they were not respectful to him. He is a good player and must not be wasted. Perhaps it is best for him to play regularly somewhere.”

Radu aside, Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso has been heavily linked with possibly becoming Handanovic’s deputy too.