Inter will not be able to use their counter-attacking weapons against Genoa on Sunday, a former Nerazzurri midfielder warned today.
Antonio Conte’s size have blitzed numerous teams in Serie A this season by sitting back and pouncing on their opponents at their most vulnerable.
According to Davide Fontolan, however, the Rossoblu will not be foolish enough to leave space for Inter and their pacey forwards at San Siro.
“It will not be an easy match for Inter because if Genoa defend deep then Conte’s team cannot play on the break,” Fontolan, who also played for Genoa, told Sky Sport Italia.
“They will need to score an early goal to break the deadlock, otherwise it could be complicated.
“Inter will have problems if Davide Ballardini’s men sit back, but if the spaces for counter-attacks are there, the game will be over.”
Fontolan, who spent six years with Inter between 1990 and 1996, went on to tip Conte’s side for Scudetto glory and praised the Nerazzurri boss for the work he has done in charge.
“Inter could win the Scudetto, even though I’m still wary of Atalanta,” he admitted.
“It depends on whether Inter manage to take advantage of all their opportunities.
“The team is very strong, the coach is good and unique.
“Conte has a particular character and he must be understood, but he is making the team play well.”
Asked what he meant when he said Conte must be understood, Fontolan revealed one of his pet peeves when it comes to modern coaches.
“I dislike it when coaches stand up throughout the game,” he explained.
“They should prepare things during the week and then sit down on a Sunday.
“Conte has created a Jose Mourinho-like character for himself but it is not necessarily a bad thing, because Mourinho won so much.
“Conte is a very good coach, one of the best in Italy.”
Fontolan also offered a comment on Inter’s strike partnership of Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez.
“Lukaku drives me crazy with his physical strength,” he added.
“I also like how he’s such a good person, I’ve only ever seen him argue with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
“He is essential, although Lautaro is doing very well too.”
Inter have the chance to extend their lead over AC Milan with victory on Sunday, as the Rossoneri do not play until after their city rivals this weekend.