Inter defender Andrea Ranocchia discussed the Nerazzurri’s key 2-0 win over Genoa in an interview with Italian broadcaster Sky Sports Italia after the game.

“The most important thing is the win, it was important to give back enthusiasm to the squad. Now we have a series of important games ahead of us and it was important not to concede goals, since lately we have been conceding too many of them.

“It was not easy to come here and win the game, we did it by convincing and totally limiting Genoa. I’m happy.”

The 32-year-old Italian defender did not express any sadness that he missed the derby against AC Milan last weekend.

“I’m always ready, I’ve shown it, I’ve always worked in silence and when I’m called, I’m always ready.”

He commented on the Nerazzurri’s strong defense against the Rossoblu throughout the game.

“We are a very organized team, we prepare for the games in detail. I have always been backup to De Vrij and I prepare for this.

“If necessary, I can also play as a forward, I have already done it. When I am called in, however, it is always to replace Stefan, which is something I like very much.”

Finally, Ranocchia spoke about whether he regrets having to accept such little playing time in order to stay at Inter. The 32-year-old has been with the Nerazzurri since 2011.

“If I had gone elsewhere I would have played more, but I have always shown my dedication to Inter. Playing in these colors is worth the wait, it’s a pleasure.

“For me the important thing is to improve myself during the week and be ready, then I had the opportunity to play. Now we want to get to the top of all competitions.”

The 32-year-old Italian defender, whose contract expires with the Milanese club at the end of this season, made only 12 appearances across all competitions last season for the Nerazzurri, for a total of 887 minutes.

In that time, he scored one goal and helped the side keep six clean sheets.

Inter’s win sees them rise up to third in the league table, only two points behind rivals and league leaders AC Milan, who face Roma on Monday.