Inter central defender Andrea Ranocchia has admitted there is a feeling of great regret in the Inter camp after their failure to capitalise on all the chances they had in the goalless draw at home to Fiorentina on Wednesday night.

Inter dominated the match and had many chances in each half but could not find a way past Fiorentina shot-stopper Pietro Terracciano, who was in fine form and made several big and impressive saves at San Siro.

“I am always ready to give my contribution to the team. There is great regret because we created so much, but we have not been able to get the result,” Ranocchia explained in an interview with Inter’s official club broadcaster Inter TV following the full time whistle.

Next he was asked about Inter manager Antonio Conte’s post-match comment where he declared that finishing second place is meaningless and is just first place for losers.

“There is still room to grow and improve in all respects. We are here for this and Conte is giving us a great hand.”

The experienced defender, who made just his 11th appearance of the season when he came on in place of the injured Stefan de Vrij, then went on to discuss what has changed this season from a psychological point of view compared to previous seasons.

“It changes a lot every year. Conte is trying to instil a winning mentality. He is never satisfied and always wants to raise the bar. We succeed at times, but it is not enough. It is a particular year, but it is for everyone and it is not an alibi. Today it is a great shame to not have got the three points.”