Andrea Stramaccioni will field the strongest side possible in Inter’s Europa League game against Cluj on Thursday.
The tactician has used the competition to field reserves and youngsters this term, but that philosophy looks like it may change.
Andrea Stramaccioni will field the strongest side possible in Inter’s Europa League game against Cluj on Thursday.
The tactician has used the competition to field reserves and youngsters this term, but that philosophy looks like it may change.
“I’m honouring this commitment and the Europa League, which means fielding the best line-up available,” he stated.
“It’s not my intention to rotate the squad from the point of view of player quality. Tomorrow I’ll try to field the team that I believe can do the best job.
“The only exceptions will be made by considering the players’ physical condition, but I’d never talk about rotating the squad tomorrow just to do it.
“But if I’ve seen some players that look tired recently then that’s something that could figure into the discussion as well.”
Stramaccioni has named a 21-man squad and it does include January signing Mateo Kovacic despite his recent fitness issues.
“He had an ankle problem. Yesterday he trained separately and then today he was with the team. I’ll decide whether to play him or not, but of course that will be based on his condition.”
Inter will start tomorrow’s first leg tie as strong favourites, but the tactician has respect for their Romanian opponents.
“You can only underestimate them if you aren’t familiar with them,” Strama warned. “We’re certainly not going to make this mistake.
“We’ve prepared for this game by looking after every detail and we’ll take to the pitch with the utmost concentration, since they’re a very dangerous opponent.
“I respect Cluj and their Coach, who’s doing a very good job. Right now all my thoughts are on tomorrow’s game. You make it to a Final by taking things step by step.”