Antonio Conte is targeting nine points in three crucial games for Inter next week, according to a report in the Italian media today.
Gazzetta dello Sport’s print edition said the Nerazzurri’s matches against Bologna, Sassuolo and Cagliari could see them take a big step towards a first Serie A title in 11 years.
Inter want to use those games to maintain their 10-point lead over Juventus and re-establish their nine-point cushion over AC Milan.
Conte’s side cannot afford to take their foot off the gas or ‘manage’ anything because it would be too risky, the Milan-based paper argued.
Inter’s boss has three cards to deploy if he wishes to keep the Nerazzurri motoring towards the Scudetto: motivation, physical condition and squad depth.
Conte has spoken to the players and told them now is the time to reap the rewards of their hard work during the last two seasons, the report said.
Inter should also benefit from the fact that his teams always finish seasons ‘with a crescendo’, thanks to Conte’s meticulous physical preparation.
The Nerazzurri also have an almost complete squad available for Conte, with Arturo Vidal close to recovery after knee surgery and Stefano Sensi revitalised after playing and scoring for Italy.