Shakhtar Donetsk Roberto De Zerbi believes that Inter have remained a very strong side after the replacement of Romelu Lukaku with Edin Dzeko over the summer.

Speaking to Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport ahead of his side’s Champions League clash with Inter this evening in an interview published in today’s print edition, the Italian tactician gave his thoughts on how the Nerazzurri have changed this season.

Inter lost a hugely significant contributor in the form of Lukaku, the man who had led the team in both goals and assists on the way to the Scudetto last season.

The club wasted no time in searching for a replacement following the Belgian’s departure, however, and former Roma striker Edin Dzeko was brought in to reinforce the attack immediately.

The Bosnian’s impact at the Nerazzurri has looked to have been a very positive one, and De Zerbi believes that they remain a very formidable side with him leading the line.

“Simone Inzaghi’s side is strong physically and mentally,” he stated. “Dzeko has different characteristics compared to Lukaku, but overall the team are certainly not any weaker.”

The Italian coach also gave his thoughts on the Scudetto race, stating that “Milan and Napoli have pushed hard, but it is normal that Inter were not yet out of the race. Atalanta will also have their say now that some injured players are back, and there’s always Juventus.”