Inter captain Samir Handanovic discussed the Nerazzurri’s Europa League challenge against German side Bayer Leverkusen tomorrow evening in an interview on Inter’s official site earlier today.
“Leverkusen are a young team with quality that have also proved their worth in the Bundesliga. I think we will see an open match where both teams will fight to win.
“They create a lot, they have quality and speed up front, but behind them they concede.”
The 36-year-old Slovenian shot stopper also touched on how the squad are approaching the game.
“We’re here to give our best and get as far as we can. Everyone dreams of winning, but you have to get passed the next match first.
“The semi-final is worth everything to us, it’s an important test. Every game from here on out is the most important one. We’re ready and looking forward to Leverkusen. Favourites? There are none.”
The 36-year-old Handanovic, whose contract expires with the Nerazzurri at the end of next season, has made 45 appearances across all competitions so far this season, for a total of 4050 minutes.
In that time, he has conceded 44 goals and helped the side keep 15 clean sheets, being one of the strongest goalkeepers in Italy despite his age. Inter will use him as their starting goalkeeper for next season as well whilst they line-up an adequate replacement for the veteran according to several reports.
Inter are the slight favourites for the clash against Bayer Leverkusen tomorrow evening, with the game set to be played in a neutral venue in Dusseldorf, the Merkur Spiel-Arena.