Inter midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan was the Nerazzurri’s best performer during the 1-1 draw against Real Betis in a friendly at the Estadio Benito Villamarin yesterday.

As reported in today’s newspaper edition of Tuttosport, the former Armenia international stood out in a new role, as he was moved to play off lone striker Edin Dzeko in a new 3-5-1-1 formation devised by coach Simone Inzaghi.

Mkhitaryan was praised for his intelligent display in the more advanced position and for forcing a good save from Betis goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, as well as providing the assist for Matteo Darmian’s late equaliser.

However, Inter’s overall performance was criticised, with the Nerazzurri lacking spark and having a difficult evening against their Spanish hosts.

The first half in particular saw little action, and it took until the 40th minute for Inter to have a shot on target, with Bravo comfortably saving from Hakan Calhanoglu.

It is reported that the second half was much better though, mainly due to Mkhitaryan, and Darmian’s late effort made up for him losing Juanmi for the opener just minutes before.