Inter manager Antonio Conte has admitted to being calm despite seeing his side throw away yet another two game as they had to settle for a 2-2 draw with Hellas Verona.
Inter fell behind early doors but found themselves ahead soon after the second half started. Inter proceeded to dominate and looked set to pick up all three points but Hellas Verona equalised with their only shot on goal in the whole of the second half.
“There is disappointment considering that in the second half Verona didn’t have a shot on goal and we had opportunities to kill the game off,” he explained to the gathered media at his post-match press conference at the Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi.
“We know there are many situations to improve upon, we are working hard on it, sometimes, we mange to collect the points, other times we need more time.”
He was then asked if he has an explanation for the carelessness shown by his team.
“We know that if we want to fight for something important we need to reduce this carelessness and we need to improve ourselves. Unfortunately we have lost points due to carelessness and it leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.”
He was then asked whether the team will be mentally impacted by the fact they could have been one point away from second but instead find themselves sitting fourth in the table instead.
“We wanted to go eight behind Juventus but we didn’t think about the league table. We are looking ahead and we must continue to do it regardless of whether we can fight for something or not.
“This is what the mentality must be. I am sorry because we have lost important points and if we had them we would be talking about an Inter that is nearby.”
Conte then went on to insist that despite his side’s recent poor form, there are still many positives that have to be taken into consideration.
“This is my team, I am the coach but if I look at the numbers in detail, we are talking about a team that has had the most ball possession since the resumption of the season, a great danger index rating and 16 goals. There are many positive things.
“If we want to talk about lacking fury and malice we must also evaluate the characteristics of the players, there are those who have more temperament and those who have less. We are working on everything and many times I think you are repaid for the hard work and I think it’s happening anyway. However, we could reap more the benefits of that we are doing.”
He was then asked whether this result or the loss to Bologna made him feel worse.
“Today, I am very calm, the match against Bologna made me angry because what happened there was what should not have happened. A team like Inter must not allow it.
“Today, there was great effort and we played well despite the fact we immediately found ourselves behind. I have little to complain about other than the two goals conceded.”
In conclusion he was asked what has been missing in recent matches.
“I have little to blame the boys for from all points of view, let’s not forget that we played against a Verona side who are physical. Difficulties in passages of play increase if there is man-to-man pressing. This is why there have been many high balls.
“Considerations are made and it is right to continue working to try to improve, trying to raise the level.”
