This season has been a battle for Inter. At many points people were left wondering if this team had what it took to actually win the title.
At multiple points this season cross stadium rivals AC Milan opened the door for Inter to take over sole possession of first place but the team continued to fall flat.
That is until last week’s Valentine’s Day win over Lazio. A brilliant tactical set up by Antonio Conte coupled with excellent performances from every player on the pitch finally saw Inter take over the top of the table.
There is still a long season to go but Inter Milan officially control their own destiny. And, as fate would have it, we will be treated to a Derby della Madonnina this weekend.
Inter have an opportunity to put a serious dent in Milan’s title hopes while bolstering their own. Additionally the match could have serious implications for any tiebreakers that may be required at the end of the season.
The circumstances surrounding this match are setting up a classic Derby. And with Inter not having to deal with the burden of midweek matches, there is no reason Conte and the squad shouldn’t be prepared for Sunday’s fixture.
Upcoming Matches:
AC Milan vs Inter, Sunday February 21st, Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, kickoff 15:00 CET
First Team Fitness:
Arturo Vidal: The Chilean midfielder continues to suffer from a minor knee injury he picked up in the match against Fiorentina. Recent reports from Sky Sports Italia suggest he’s progressing and that his training load has increased.
However he continues to train separately from the rest of the first team. Given the importance of this weekend’s match it’s possible he will be available off the bench.
But with Christian Eriksen performing well in partnership with Marcelo Brozovic and Nicolo Barella, it is very unlikely Vidal will be given a starting nod.
Stefano Sensi: A frequent flier on our injury list. Unfortunately the Italian midfielder struggled with muscular fatigue during a training match, per Sky Sports Italia.
As it stood he was never likely to get a starting nod for the club in such a pivotal match. However, losing the 25 year old is a blow to the bench as he has shown promise for the Nerazzurri in the past. His status will be monitored over the next few days.