Inter striker Edin Dzeko is likely to start for the Nerazzurri in the derby against AC Milan on Sunday, and the Bosnian has become a real point of reference for his team in matches like these.

This is highlighted in today’s print edition of Rome-based newspaper Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who note that the former Roma striker has become a reliable talisman in attack for the Nerazzurri, even when he is not getting on the scoresheet.

Dzeko can hardly be accused of not scoring goals for Inter, as he has continued to prove himself in front of goal as he had done for the Giallorossi, scoring important goals as well.

However, the Corriere suggests, the 36-year-old is also the player who has the most say in matches when he’s not scoring goals.

Dzeko’s linkup play, first touch, and ability to physically impose himself on centre-backs have been key to many of Inter’s best performances over the past season and a half.

Moreover, tactical awareness has meant that the Bosnian is always seemingly in the right place at the right time, and not afraid to drop in and make up the numbers in midfield when his team are threatening to be outnumbered centrally.