Antonio Conte should ignore anyone suggesting Inter don’t play attractive football, according to Nerazzurri legendary Alessandro Altobelli.

Inter raised a few eyebrows in Italy after beating Sassuolo with just 30% possession in midweek – their lowest on record in Serie A since Opta began collecting such data in 2004.

Altobelli has precious little time for Conte’s critics though, arguing their rivals are simply jealous of their incredible form.

Inter’s former striker asked Corriere della Sera today: “Who is it that says Inter play bad football?

“It’s those who are behind them and want to create negativity.

“Nobody plays better than Inter in Italy, so Conte doesn’t need to worry about this chat.

“Let me get this straight: Inter play badly but are top of the league, having won 22 games out of 29, with the joint-best attack and the second best defence?

“What do the other teams need to do then, go to Lourdes?”

Conte has transformed Inter’s fortunes since being appointed as head coach in the summer of 2019.

Altobelli was also at pains to highlight the importance of Beppe Marotta’s work though, following his arrival as Inter’s chief executive for sport the previous year.

“Conte and Marotta have changed Inter,” he added.

“Both need to be given credit and so do the club for having brought them in.

“Inter mustn’t make the mistake of not extending their contracts though: the club need to add something every year to open a winning cycle with Conte.”

Inter have won 10 games in a row in Serie A for the first time since 2007 and could equal their all-time record for consecutive home league victories (12) by beating Cagliari on Sunday.

Conte’s side are 11 points clear of second-placed AC Milan with nine games left.