Inter striker Romelu Lukaku’s presence in the starting eleven for the team’s Serie A clash with Roma on Saturday is a serious doubt as he will only start if he is 100% fit.

This according to Italian news outlet Gazzetta.it, who report that the 29-year-old is nearing a full recovery from his thigh injury, but that if he is technically fit but there is considered to be any risk of reinjury he will not be risked from the start.

Lukaku’s fitness is a delicate matter for the Nerazzurri, as the scenario of having the striker reinjure his thigh by returning too early and putting stress on the affected area prematurely is one that they want to avoid at all costs, particularly given the Belgian’s desire to play at the World Cup.

Accordingly, the 29-year-old’s presence from the start would not be risked against the Giallorossi if the feeling based on the next couple days is that he is not 100% ready to start.