Inter defender Stefan de Vrij has said that they are focusing on what happens on the pitch rather than off of it and he has faith in Romelu Lukaku, according to a report in the Italian broadcast media today.

Speaking during an interview with Sport Mediaset, via FCInternews, ahead of the Milan derby which takes place on Saturday evening, Stefan de Vrij stressed how the team must focus on what happens on the pitch rather than any media noise around the team.

“We have to think about ourselves and the pitch, let’s not be influenced by what they say outside.”

He was also asked about the importance of Romelu Lukaku’s injury and how heavily that weighs on the team. He stressed that he thinks the Belgian forward will make a serious difference this season for the Nerazzurri.

“Romelu’s was an important return, he is a very strong striker who will make a difference this year too. It’s a pity he got injured.”

Inter recently lost against Lazio but they hit back by beating Cremonese 3-1 in the next game.

“It was very important to bounce back and return to winning ways. We did it, it was what we wanted. The derby is a very important match for the league table, for ourselves and for the fans. We were sorry for how it ended last year, we have to look ahead.”

He was asked about the defence looking less strong than in the past, to which he said: “It’s not just about us defenders, it’s a team issue that involves everyone.”