Inter centre-back Andrea Ranocchia has called on the team to remain focused as they take on Sampdoria today, having already won the Serie A title.
The Nerazzurri were crowned champions last weekend for the first time since 2010, after Atalanta failed to overcome Sassuolo on Sunday to ensure Antonio Conte’s side could not be caught at the top.
In an interview with InterTV before kick-off at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, the 33-year-old insisted that there could be no complacency despite already being declared champions, whilst also praising his teammates for their success this season.
“We are very happy and proud of what we have done. We have achieved something extraordinary and deserved. It was a great effort by everyone and now we are enjoying it until at the end,” Ranocchia claimed.
“The shirt must always be honoured. We wear a special shirt, we still have to win and continue to do what we have done so far.”
Ranocchia has spent 11 seasons at Inter, including loan spells at Sampdoria and Hull City, and spoke of his joy at finally helping the club win the Scudetto, whilst dedicating the triumph to his family.
“I felt a great sigh of relief, after so many difficult years. The group here deserved this success. My family were vital for me, I am very happy and my special dedication goes to them,” Ranocchia added.
The former Bari defender is named in Antonio Conte’s starting line-up for the match against the Blucerchiati and will be joined in defence by Danilo D’Ambrosio and Alessandro Bastoni.