Former Inter midfielder Borja Valero believes that his old side will likely be able to put AC Milan out of the Scudetto race should they win the derby on Saturday.

Speaking to Italian broadcaster RAI Radio 24, the Spaniard emphasized that the Nerazzurri could have a chance to put an insurmountable amount of distance between them and their city rivals with a win over the weekend.

Inter sit four points at the top of the table ahead of the Rossoneri as well as Napoli, with a game in hand on both.

A loss or draw for Inter would allow both rivals to keep within touching distance, but a win over the Rossoneri would mean that at least one major title rival would be seven points behind, before considering the game in hand.

For this reason, Valero feels that avoiding defeat would be absolutely imperative for Milan, while the match is a significant opportunity for Inter.

“The derby is a special occasion,” he said. “At this point it’s more important for Milan to reduce the gap, and important for them psychologically.”

“If Inter win their advantage at the top gets even bigger, and it would be very difficult for Milan to win the title,” he added.