Italian journalist Luigi Garlando has praised the workrate of Inter midfielder Marcelo Brozovic and heralded the Croat’s consistent performances at the heart of the Nerazzurri midfield.

Writing in this week’s edition of Italian news magazine Sportweek, as reported by L’Interista, the journalist suggested that the energy and application shown by the 28-year-old are key attributes in keeping him in the Nerazzurri team.

Brozovic has become one of the most consistently impressive central midfielders in Serie A over the past few seasons, establishing himself as a constant presence in the centre of the park under Luciano Spalletti before becoming virtually the first name on the teamsheet under Antonio Conte.

The 28-year-old won the Scudetto with the club last season starting nearly every match at the base of midfield, and he looks set to continue in an important role under Simone Inzaghi this season.

The Croat is often lauded for his technical quality and passing, but as Garlando points out, his dynamism and running are also key attributes in midfield.

“In the past his contribution has been questioned, I think because of his direct manner – when things don’t go well he doesn’t hide it, he grumbles, he drops his arms at his sides, despite the fact that he never travels less than twelve kilometers per game,” Garlando writes.

“It is no coincidence that despite all the players who have been signed in midfield at Inter from Spalletti onwards,” he goes on, “Brozovic is the fulcrum and soul of Inter even in spite of the flashier players who are more eye-catching than him.”