On Monday evening Inter will face Livorno at Armando Picchi in a match that is important for both teams. Livorno is fighting for survival at the bottom of the table and Inter wants to try and reach play in the European cups. The two clubs have an excellent relationship, something that is clear in view of the large number of talents, owned or co-owned by Inter, that coach Mimmo Di Carlo has in his squad. A colony has been created that consists of Bardi, Duncan, Mbaye, Belfodil and Benassi. Our partner fcinternews.it interviewed Livorno’s sporting director Stefano Capozucca to talk about the good relationship between the clubs in the transfer market.
Director, we start off with Monday’s match: Both you and Inter are in need of a victory.
“It will definitely be a difficult task for both teams. Inter is a great team, but we can’t make any mistakes. We must get a result.”
Now, you’re playing in large part to avoid relegation…
“It is useless to hide it, we are in desperate need of points. Now every game is crucial for those who are fighting to avoid relegation. We will not give up and we want to accomplish this feat. For us it would be like winning the Scudetto to remain in Serie A.”
For coach Mazzarri it will be a special game in his Livorno.
“I have known Walter for many years and I think he’s one of the best coaches on the Italian scene. I have great respect for him, Mazzarri is competent and is the right man for Inter.”
You have a good relationship with Inter in the transfer market.
“It is thanks to Ausilio, who is a dear friend and also an extremely competent director. We are proud to have these young people, who are among the best in Italy, in our ranks. Meanwhile, we are highlighting an important legacy for Inter. I think even they are satisfied with the relationship they have had with us.”
The colony of Inter players increased in January when Ishak Belfodi arrived.
“Belfodil has great potential. Don’t forget that he is a guy born in 1992. I’m sure that the distance will prove it.”
At Inter he had difficulties, in Livorno he hasn’t found much space: Why?
“Belfodil had had some physical problems when he came to us in January. Unfortunately, he was not in good shape and therefore he needs more time so he can get inserted. Now he’s in good shape and can be very helpful for us. Staying in Serie A is an important goal and I think Belfodil has to play in a team that has a little more calmness in the table. He would then have the opportunity to express himself without pressure, while with us, with the anxiety over the results, the pressure is greater.”
One who by now is at home in Livorno is Fredino Duncan.
“Last year, he was crucial as we won the league and this year he has proven to be a protagonist in Serie A. Too bad he’s only here on loan.”
The same goes for Mbaye and Benassi , who brought the appetite of several clubs for next season . For the former , there are siren calls from abroad , and in January wanted Lazio have him . The latter should be to Torino .
“There is no doubt that both are important players. It is normal that many clubs are tempted, in January, we didn’t want to be deprived of two players who we thought are fundamental. Benassi and Mbaye are two guys born in 1994 but on the pitch they show a large personality and maturity, despite their young age. They are irreplaceable for us. In June, they will return to Inter and then it’s up to Mazzarri and Ausilio to decide their future.”
Are they ready for Inter?
“It’s up to Piero (Ausilio ed.) to make these assessments. If I were to be asked for my opinion? I would say to Ausilio that they are important and excellent professionals, capable to earn a place as protagonists.”
Bardi is being mentioned in big deals every week and they say he could be the one to replace Handanovic at Inter and he is a candidate to be Buffon’s heir in the national team: What do you think?
“Francesco Bardi is a very serious guy, as well as a great goalkeeper. His technical qualities can’t be discussed and he can aspire to a meaningful career. As with all young people, you should not expose them to too much pressure and responsibility. He has shown that he can handle this level and he has also demonstrated that on the international level with the U21 national team. Inter and the national team are in his future. With him, the goal is in good hands.”
Source : fcinternews.it
Up to Mazzarri? I guess it was nice while it lasted, see you all young players..