Inter Milan are looking to get back on track against Roma after a number of their players suffered World Cup qualifying heartbreak with Italy.
Cristian Chivu, the Inter boss, has backed his Italy players to recover quickly from their nation’s defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Five Inter players featured midweek when Italy lost on penalties: Alessandro Bastoni, Francesco Pio Esposito, Federico Dimarco, Nicolò Barella and Davide Frattesi. Bastoni was sent off and Esposito was one of two players to miss their spot kicks in the shootout.
Chivu Backs Players to Bounce Back
Chivu said he has champions in his squad with great human qualities and the ability to bounce back. He added that they have had setbacks, but they have always bounced back.
“They know this is the nature of the beast. At times you do not reach your goals,” said Chivu.
“The key is to bounce back, to show character. We have the love of the fans. They know upsets are part of the game.
“I’m not worried though. Since I’ve been in charge I’ve seen great things. I coach great men. I coach players with values.
“We are league leaders, we are competitive and in line with our goals.”
Martínez Set to Return for Inter
Serie A’s leading scorer Lautaro Martínez is expected to provide Chivu with a boost by returning to action after a lengthy injury layoff.
The Argentina striker, who has scored 14 Serie A goals this season, has missed the last seven matches due to a calf injury.
Chivu said: “On a single level, everyone is key. Lautaro is one of them and so are others, like Luis Henrique, Andy Diouf. We have everyone ready to play their part.”
Roma Challenge Looms
Inter will bid to halt a three-game winless league run against Roma at San Siro on Sunday.
Chivu said: “We know Roma and what they offer. Their coach has left his mark. He is doing very well. It is a huge game. There are eight games to go and the next one is the most important one.
“We need intensity. We need to be ready. It is never easy to face [Roma head coach Gian Piero] Gasperini. We need character on Sunday. We know it will be complicated.”
Despite taking only two points from their last three matches, Inter have a six-point advantage over closest rivals AC Milan at the top of the table and are unbeaten at home since late November.
Roma’s Champions League challenge has faded after winning only three of their last nine in Serie A and they currently sit sixth, eight points behind third-placed Napoli.