Inter coach Antonio Conte believes the first half performance of his side laid the groundwork as they secured a dominant 3-0 victory over AC Milan in the Derby della Madonnina today.
An early Lautaro Martinez goal saw the Nerazzurri go into half-time ahead, before the Argentine striker doubled his tally and Romelu Lukaku added a third to send Inter four points clear at the top of Serie A.
However, Inter were forced to resist a Milan fightback early in the second period with Samir Handanovic producing a string of saves to deny Zlatan Ibrahimovic, before Martinez netted his second.
“In the first half we played at a high level and produced many opportunities to put the match out of reach,” Conte declared in a post match interview with Italian television broadcaster Sky Sport Italia after the final whistle.
“Then after the break we took some risks and Samir played well, but we then resumed our strong display. Milan being behind helped us in those moments, but we were good.”
Denmark international Christian Eriksen was handed a starting berth in place of Arturo Vidal, whilst Ivan Perisic also began the match at left wing-back and provided an assist, and Conte praised the improvements in recent weeks from the pair.
“Christian made himself available recently. Even [Achraf] Hakimi found himself on the bench earlier in the season as he had to learn the defensive phases.
“Ivan was struggling at first but he is doing really well in this position and we have found ourselves two new players.”
“I believe a coach must improve everyone and let them understand his ideas. We are a team and we have clear ideas on both phases.
“I’m proud of how Perisic and Eriksen have improved. Barella arrived at Inter and settled in well immediately. Other players need more time, Eriksen needed time too. He has understood our ideas and the same is true of Perisic.
“Last year Perisic didn’t have the same commitment, he’s changed now and today he played a very good game under every aspect. He has an incredible potential and sometimes he should believe more in himself.
“I once again want to send our condolences to the family of Mauro Bellugi, his death was a blow for all of us,
Inter now turn their attention to Genoa next weekend, as they look to extend their lead at the top of the table further.