Striker Marcus Thuram was once again “decisive” for Inter Milan against Empoli, even though he didn’t get on the scoresheet.
Today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, hail the Frenchman’s display in the 3-0 Serie A victory.
So far, Thuram has yet to add to his total of seven goals in Serie A since the return from the October international break.
But that certainly doesn’t mean that the 27-year-old has not had his contribution to make.
On the contrary, Thuram has become almost the perfect example of a striker who contributes to the team even when he doesn’t get himself on the scoresheet.
That was evident against Juventus over the weekend. Thuram won Inter’s first penalty in the breathless 4-4 draw. And he gave the Bianconeri backline an absolutely torrid time all evening.
And it was once again the case as Inter beat Empoli yesterday evening.
Marcus Thuram “Decisive” For Inter Vs Empoli Despite Not Scoring
In the first half, Inter were searching for some kind of an attacking spark against an Empoli defense who have been formidable this season in Serie A, particularly at home.
Nerazzurri captain Lautaro Martinez had yet to really come alive before halftime.
But it was Thuram who really had a run at the Empoli defenders.
And this would end up playing a huge role in the result – even if it came at a bit of a physical cost for Thuram.
The Frenchman was on the end of a late sliding tackle by Empoli defender Saba Goglichidze.
Referee Matteo Marchetti did not issue a red card to the Georgian right away. But after a bit of advice from his VAR, he did have a look at the screen and sent the Goglichidze off.
And in truth, Empoli could have few complaints considering how late and reckless the challenge was.
This was not the first time this season that an opposition player has received a straight red card for a sliding challenge on Thuram.
That had also been the case for Torino defender Guillermo Maripan just before the October break.
In that match against the Granata, Thuram also scored the match-winning hattrick.
Against Empoli, there were no heroics front of goal from the France international. However, he had already more than left his stamp on the match.