Luciano Spalletti warns Inter must treat SPAL like a Champions League fixture. “We haven’t yet expressed our full potential.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.30 UK time (18.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I doubt there will be a lapse in concentration compared to previous games. The first thing we must do is maintain those qualities that allowed us to get these victories,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Luciano Spalletti warns Inter must treat SPAL like a Champions League fixture. “We haven’t yet expressed our full potential.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.30 UK time (18.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I doubt there will be a lapse in concentration compared to previous games. The first thing we must do is maintain those qualities that allowed us to get these victories,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We know of the dangers in this fixture. I hear the Champions League theme tune before every game and the players will hear it ahead of SPAL too. If someone can’t hear it in their minds, then play it on their phone.
“I don’t like the concept of squad rotation, because I replace first choice players with other first choice players. It’s not easy to play three games in a week with the same players. Seeing as the club worked so well on making a competitive squad, I now have to use all our resources.
“No matter which individual I choose, the fact is Inter step on to that pitch. We haven’t yet expressed our full potential and recent results must not make us rest on our laurels. When you wear the Inter jersey, every game is a test and you must always prove that you are worthy of it.
“I liked the mentality of the last few games, but I have to see if it is really under our skin or if it washes off in the shower. As long as our victories make headline news, it means we aren’t yet at the level we need to be. Juventus don’t get asked these questions and it should be normal for us too.”
Spalletti joked about Borja Valero, who has been something of a bit-part player since leaving Fiorentina.
“It’s remarkable that at the age of 45, Borja Valero can be out for four or five games, but still work as hard as ever in training. More importantly, when he comes off the bench, he can make the difference even if he only plays for five minutes. We should all learn from his quality, hunger, desire to be in the game and put Inter ahead of everything.”
It’s possible Borja Valero will start tomorrow, as Marcelo Brozovic is out with a muscular problem.