Stefan de Vrij has won praise for his rock solid performance at the back for Inter Milan in yesterday’s Serie A win over Empoli.
Today’s print edition of Rome-based newspaper Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews, hail the Netherlands international for a tidy display in the heart of Inter’s back three.
De Vrij started at the heart of Inter’s defense for the third match in a row yesterday.
The 32-year-old had also played more than an hour in the role during the Nerazzurri’s Serie A victory away to Roma earlier this month.
Inter coach Simone Inzaghi has had little option but to continue selecting de Vrij in the position.
Francesco Acerbi picked up a thigh injury during the match against the Giallorossi.
Therefore, that has only left de Vrij as a natural option in the centre of the back three.
The former Lazio and Feyenoord defender’s physicality and man-marking ability have been key to Inter defending their penalty area in recent matches.
Stefan De Vrij Back To His Best In Inter Serie A Win Vs Empoli
In Inter’s last couple matches, de Vrij has not always been at his best.
The Dutchman struggled with his positioning at times in Sunday’s Serie A clash with Juventus. That went some way to explaining why Inter conceded four goals in the 4-4 thriller.
Even against Young Boys in the Champions League, de Vrij didn’t always find it easy against a pacey and mobile opposition forward line.
But yesterday, de Vrij had a real reference point.
The experienced defender had the task of marking Empoli striker Lorenzo Colombo.
And against the very tall, strong striker, it was always going to be a battle.
De Vrij came out on top in that battle.
The 32-year-old looked calm and composed, keeping things very quiet around the Inter penalty area.