Antonio Conte’s post-match comments after the Fiorentina match on Christian Eriksen were made in order to protect his transfer value according to a report in today’s print edition of Italian daily newspaper Tuttosport.

The Danish national team player started in his preferred role of attacking midfielder for Inter in their 4-3 win over Fiorentina on Saturday but had a game to forget and continued to look out of place in the team, like he has on all barring very few occasions since his arrival back in January.

Despite this, Conte said: “Compared to when he arrived, he has increased the engine revs and is playing in his ideal position.”

It remains to be seen what will happen with Eriksen with many reports in the media speculating that Inter would be willing to let him go if a satisfactory offer is made.

Arturo Vidal made an impact off the bench and will soon be ready to start matches which will only hurt Eriksen. There is also Radja Nainggolan, who could possibly be a starter.