Italian journalist Mario Sconcerti believes that the contract extension of Marcelo Brozovic will be very welcome at Inter as the team cannot function nearly as well without him in the side.

Speaking to Italian broadcaster TMW, the journalist emphasized how the renewal comes at a significant time as the 29-year-old’s importance to the team looks to be greater than ever.

Inter have been without Brozovic in just four matches this season, but on all four occasions they have looked as though they were struggling for balance in the midfield battle.

The Croat has a rare skillset which makes him the ideal player for the Nerazzurri’s preferred formation and style of play, and the prospect of losing him for not just a couple matches but for good will have been an alarming one.

Now, the midfielder has committed his future on a new four-year deal, and his influence in the team can be counted on for seasons to come.

“Good news for Inter,” Sconcerti characterized the extension. “When a player is very important it becomes automatic that without him the team is at a disadvantage. You should still have a player who covers that role.”

“Inter don’t have that,” he went on. “Last year Gagliardini filled in for him, this year it’s not clear why he isn’t. Brozovic is a unique player but not having a plan B is a limitation.”

The journalist went on that “They shouldn’t make a tactical change but instead have a similar player. They had Sensi who is a particular player, very fragile, but for Mancini he is Jorginho’s only backup. He could also have been the same for Brozovic.”