In an interview with Passione Inter, former Inter midfielder Andy Van Der Meyde reflected on his time with Inter among a number of other topics including Adriano, training with Marco Materazzi and a player he thinks would be a good signing for Inter.
“I always hope that Inter win and are the champions. I will always have a special space in my heart for Inter and the fans,” he began.
“I was really happy at Inter. The fans were great and I played with great players and great people. It was wonderful for me to play for a club like Inter.
“My best memory is probably the goal away to Arsenal when we won 3-0. Obafemi Martinez and Cruz also scored that day. It was an unforgettable night for us and Inter fans.”
The former Dutch national team player then spoke on former Inter striker Adriano.
“I think Adriano was one of the best players in the world when he played at Inter. He could score from any position. He was strong and also a beautiful person.
“For him the only important thing was to score goals and be important to his team. Some things then happened, but you know that’s life for you. He could have been the strongest in the world.”
Next he discussed what it was like to train alongside Marco Materazzi at Inter.
“I will always remember nutmegging him in training once and everyone cheered and taunted him and two minutes later he killed me. I learned not to mess with Matrix.”
He was then asked for his opinion on current Inter manager Antonio Conte.
“Conte is a commander. As a former footballer, I know what it means to have someone like him on the bench: he tells you who plays and how to do it, without discussion. It was great of Inter to hire him.”
Van Der Meyde then went on to discuss Ashley Young and Antonio Candreva who now occupy the wings like he did during his time at Inter.
“Young is a good player, he is nice crosser of the ball and has a nice shot. He has played for many years both as a left winger and as a full back, he can play in any side and is a nice player for Inter.
“Candreva is constantly busy helping his teammates, running for the team, he is what Inter needs, a good player and he also seems to be a good person too.”
He was then asked if he has any sort of relationship with current Inter and Netherlands centre back Stefan de Vrij.
“Yes, I talk to him sometimes. Not so much about Inter, but we chat more about his performances when he plays and when he scores in particular. We talk from time to time.”
In conclusion he was asked if he thinks Ajax’s Donny van de Beek would be a good signing for Inter in the future.
“He would be a nice purchase for Inter. He is a box to box player. He could run all day and he’s smart. He’s always in the right place on the pitch. He scores goals and above all he likes to win. Inter would be a great choice for him.”
