Cristian Chivu faces a reshuffled defensive lineup for Sunday’s Easter clash with Roma, with Manuel Akanji shifting to the right of the back three and Francesco Acerbi edging Stefan de Vrij for the central berth in what promises to be a high-stakes selection call.

According to Corriere dello Sport, via FCIN, the absences of Carlos Augusto, suspended, and Yann Bisseck injured, and set to miss the Como game too, have forced Chivu’s hand at the back.

Akanji moves across to fill the right centre-back role, freeing up the central position as a straight contest between two veteran defenders who are both approaching the end of their Inter careers.

Acerbi holds the edge.

He stayed at Appiano Gentile throughout the international break and arrives at the Roma game with fresh legs.

Indeed, an important advantage in a fixture that demands maximum physical output from the first whistle.

Inter Vs Roma – Akanji & Acerbi Shake-Up As Mkhitaryan Returns To Bench As Lautaro Comeback Lifts Squad

The better news comes elsewhere.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan is considered recovered and should at minimum take a place on the bench.

Therefore giving Chivu a valuable option to change the midfield dynamic if needed during the match.

Lautaro Martinez‘s return to the starting lineup is the headline development.

Indeed, the captain back in his rightful place alongside Thuram after more than five weeks on the sidelines.

His presence and energy will inevitably lift the entire group.

Especially important ahead of what could be one of the defining nights of Inter’s season.

Probable Inter XI (3-5-2): Sommer; Akanji, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Zielinski, Dimarco; Thuram, Lautaro.