Stefano Pioli claims he “deserves” the results that he has so far attained at Inter as “self-esteem is the only thing that we lack on the top three”.

Pioli has won 14 of his 21 games in charge of Inter, prompting speculation that the club will keep him on next season, and the former Lazio and Bologna boss admits the Nerazzurri are “the pinnacle” for him.

“I was given the following objectives: to convey passion and to work with soul and the principles of football,” he told La Stampa.

Stefano Pioli claims he “deserves” the results that he has so far attained at Inter as “self-esteem is the only thing that we lack on the top three”.

Pioli has won 14 of his 21 games in charge of Inter, prompting speculation that the club will keep him on next season, and the former Lazio and Bologna boss admits the Nerazzurri are “the pinnacle” for him.

“I was given the following objectives: to convey passion and to work with soul and the principles of football,” he told La Stampa.

“I tried to put the players at ease, both on and off the pitch. We can still improve, but something important has been done. Still, our route isn’t finished.

“The lads wanted a precise method of working, a precise style of play. We have an important driving force. The players wanted to be loosened up.

“Self-esteem is the only thing that we lack on the top three, but it’ll come with continuity of our work and results.

“Inter have bounced back from some mixed seasons, but our position, while I’ve been here, says that we’re five points behind Juventus. This is our level today.

“Inter? It was the right time. I’ve have always conquered everything with work, commitment and passion in my career. No shortcuts, step by step.

“I’d wished that an important call would arrive so I could complete my journey. Then came Inter, the team of my heart, the pinnacle.

“Not considered by great teams before? You could talk about Allegri before Milan, Guardiola who had only coached the youth at Barcelona.

“Until they give you an opportunity, no-one can know. Now I feel ready. I’ve found great attention and curiosity, a work culture that we don’t always have in Italy.

“Suning Group has the right humility and strength to grow in football and do important things.

“My future? It’ll be decided by my results, so I must only think about work. They [the Press] are all worried about my future, but I’m fine.

“I’ve deserved what I’ve achieved so far at Inter and I’m taking my opportunity in the best way.

“Best and worst things for a Coach? The worst are those three quarters of an hour between arriving at a stadium and warming up. It’s annoying, I’d abolish it.

“The best are once the finishing touches have been applied in the morning of a game.

“I won’t say that I enjoy it, but I’m very calm at that time. After that, I like the coach journey up to a stadium.

“Icardi? For me, it’s important to have some reference points. Mauro is one of them.

“I didn’t know him, but found a very mature person for someone his age. He can get even better.”

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