Aleksandar Kolarov addressed the press after Inter Milan and Fiorentina shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Speaking to DAZN via FCInterNews, Cristian Chivu’s assistant deemed tonight’s stalemate in Tuscany ‘acceptable.’

Inter came into the game only five points clear of second-placed AC Milan, who eked out a dramatic 3-2 home win over Torino yesterday.

Moreover, the Nerazzurri were without head coach Cristian Chivu due to suspension.

Unfazed by Chivu’s absence, the visitors took a first-minute lead through Francesco Pio Esposito, who headed home Nicolo Barella’s cross.

Indeed, an early opener was just what Inter needed after dropping points in their last two league outings.

Despite finding a quick breakthrough, Chivu’s men were lucky to enter the halftime break on the front foot.

In addition to Moise Kean’s rightfully disallowed equalizer, Fiorentina wasted two more glorious chances in the first half.

However, La Viola found a well-deserved equalizer in the 77th minute, as Cher Ndour canceled out Esposito’s opener.

Aleksandar Kolarov Deems Inter Milan Draw vs Fiorentina Acceptable

“I could see how the game was going from the very start,” Kolarov said. “We knew the three points were vital for us, but credit must go to Fiorentina. We didn’t play our best match, it’s not our best moment, but we’re still six points clear and it’s all in our hands.”

Asked whether Inter lacked lucidity, Kolarov replied: “Yes, that’s a fair assessment. We’re lacking sharpness and clarity, maybe because of the number of games we’ve played. The team isn’t going through its best spell – we’re used to seeing an Inter side that dominates. But I repeat, it’s up to us to finish the job in this league.”

Moreover, he assessed his strikers’ partial involvement in the build-up play.

“Yes, for our style of play, they’re fundamental because we want to draw opponents in and then use the forwards to hurt them. But I wouldn’t just talk about the attackers – the midfield also needed to provide more quality in possession to give them better conditions. Still, the forwards give us a big hand both offensively and defensively.”

Meanwhile, he also believes that the international break comes at an opportune moment for Inter.

“Yes, the break will help; we’ll try to recover some players and energy. But I want to say that with Inter, everything seems expected: a draw away from home is acceptable, Fiorentina are no pushovers, especially lately.

“I see the positive side, but when people talk about Inter, everything seems taken for granted and easy. I understand it, but we must remember we’re six points ahead because we’ve done many things well.”

Finally, he praised Inter stars who received international call-ups.

“I think they’re getting ready to go to Coverciano. The important thing is that everyone is fit, except Bastoni, who wasn’t with us. I wish them all the best.”