Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu addressed the press after his side’s morale-boosting 3-0 home victory over Serie A strugglers Fiorentina.
Speaking to Sky Sports via FCInterNews, the Romanian coach gave his verdict on several of the Nerazzurri’s star players.
Inter Milan completely defeated Fiorentina tonight.
David de Gea made a series of great saves in the first half to keep the Nerazzurri past, but La Viola crumbled in the second half.
In the 66th minute, Hakan Çalhanoğlu broke the deadlock with a stunning long-range shot, breaking the deadlock.
Just five minutes later, Petar Sučić scored a delightful solo goal to make it 2-0. Furthermore, the 21-year-old scored his first goal at San Siro.
And Calhanoglu sealed Fiorentina’s fate from the spot after Ange-Joan Bony converted a penalty shortly after coming on as a substitute.
In this way, Inter bounced back from Saturday’s painful loss to Napoli and restored a three-point gap over Antonio Conte’s side.
More importantly, the team put in another great collective performance, proving they have what it takes to challenge for the Scudetto.
However, Inter cannot afford to rest on their laurels as they remain three points behind pacesetters Napoli.
Cristian Chivu happy with Inter Milan’s response in 3-0 win over Fiorentina
“A team like Inter has an obligation and an obligation to overcome difficult moments in order to advance their dreams and goals,” said Cristian Chivu.
“Today was not easy at all. Fiorentina were well organized and were looking to counterattack,” he added. “We struggled in the first half with 20 meters left, but we were good.
“But there was a desire for space. In the second half we were more specific and determined and were able to take the key to the game with long-range shots, which we did not try in the first half.”
“Then the second goal made things easier.
“We have been patient, we need to keep our physical and mental energy at the highest level at all times to understand our opponents.
“Then it all pays off. When the second stage of the play came, we found clarity, space and determination.
“Other than that, it’s the right thing to reward young players, but we have to be careful how we put them on the field and with whom we put them on the field.
“For us, it’s easy because we have a team that gives them great support, not only during matches, but also in training, where they are asked to improve their level.”
Inter Milan manager Chivu comments on Susic’s goal celebration and praises Bisek
After scoring his first goal for Inter, Sučić could not control himself and wild celebrations broke out.
“For the past few months, I have never felt in a celebratory mood,” Chivu said. “I’m happy with him because he’s a perfect midfielder who can play many roles.
“He has quality and a strong engine and will cover a lot of ground.
“I’m happy when he gets to the box because he has the technical skill and composure that he showed today.
“We are pleased with his work style and contribution to the team.”
Finally, he praised Jan Bicek’s great performance.
“I’m happy for Jan,” Chiv admitted. “That’s how I see the player. I always thought he could play as a centre-back.
“We tried it in Belgium and today we repeated it against an opponent like Keane who can pose a challenge.
“I don’t really understand what happened at 2-0.
“But when he came to get water, I told him not to go for the interception, especially if it’s an open ball, not to get caught on the counter.
“These are ways that I understand what should be allowed and what shouldn’t be allowed, but it’s my job and my staff’s job to make these things clear.
“But the courage to hold the high line while understanding the risks is always important.
“When in doubt, it is better to retreat than to intercept.
“This is my rule and one that I also followed as a player, even if I wasn’t as fast as Bisek.
“But with my past as a defender, I can teach the players something.”
