Inter central defender Diego Godin has shared his belief that he and teammates will have to press well in their upcoming Europa League opponents Shakhtar Donetsk.
“We know Luis Castro’s team well, we saw their match against FC Basel and have watched videos of them,” Godin told Inter’s official club broadcaster Inter TV earlier on today.
“They really like to keep the ball and also have no qualms about dropping back and using the wings. They have quality, and we’ll need to press them well and put together moves that will hurt them, especially through those who can make the difference in one-on-ones.”
Godin then went on to speak about the group Inter currently have and the importance of having harmony in the dressing room.
“We’re a great group and always have been. We have many good lads, and, if you want to make progress, harmony in the dressing room and quality players are of utmost importance.
“We’re happy and where we want to be. We’re playing in an important competition and are growing. During my career, I’ve always tried to have good relationships with my teammates. I try to get on with everybody, with this having always been one of my characteristics.”
The former Atletico Madrid captain, who joined Inter ahead of this season, then went on to speak about how things have changed for the better for him after a difficult start to life in the Nerazzurri.
“I’ve worked as hard as possible to put the Coach’s instructions into practice out on the pitch, they’re different to what I’d been used to previously.
“I’ve had to work on both the mental and physical side of things. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been able to understand his philosophy and how he wants to take the team forward.
“I think that I’ve overcome a personal challenge. I’ve now reached a point where it’s easier for me to help my teammates and be a leader on the pitch, where the Coach’s ideas are implemented, and off it too.”
In conclusion the experienced Uruguayan national team player sang the praises of teammate Romelu Lukaku who has netted 31 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions to date in his debut campaign with the club.
“Romelu is very important for our system. He’s made great strides forward, including from a mental perspective. The strikers are integral as we look to keep the ball and find space. If they are feeling good and do what the Coach asks of them, it’s difficult for our opponents to defend against them.”
This season the 34-year-old has made 34 appearances across all competitions to date. In his time on the park, which totals just over 2600 minutes, Godin has scored one goal and has provided a single assist for his teammates too.
