Post by Taxigirl on Nov 25, 2003 10:27:16 GMT
Inter boss Alberto Zaccheroni maintains that his side do not fear Champions’ League opponents Arsenal.
The two teams meet at the San Siro on Tuesday in a game which is of vital importance to both of their European Cup aspirations.
"We are respectful of Arsenal, a club that has an important squad of players and great personality," said the tactician.
"However, we must not forget who we are. As Inter we don’t fear them but simply respect them."
The Nerazzurri go into the game in confident mood after winning their last three League games, culminating in Saturday’s 6-0 destruction of Reggina.
"Winning games has and will help us to convince ourselves of the quality we have," said Zac who took over from the sacked Hector Cuper last month.
"We’re conducting ourselves well right now where we are constructing something really positive."
The Italian side do have a slight mental edge over the Gunners after a fantastic 3-0 win at Highbury earlier in the campaign.
"Inter played extremely well that night and they deserved the victory," continued Zaccheroni.
"The side were well prepared mentally that evening too and it showed on the field of play.
"I want to see a focused Inter side. The win in the first game should not be forgotten as victories lead to more victories."
Zac has been boosted with the return to fitness of Marco Materazzi who missed the Reggina game because of Injury. But Alvaro Recoba is still out.
Arsenal will be without Sylvain Wiltord and the non-flying Denis Bergkamp. Gilberto Silva is also a doubt for the Premiership side.
Inter probable: Toldo; Cordoba, Materazzi, Cannavaro; J Zanetti, Lamouchi, C Zanetti, Kily Gonzalez; Van der Meyde, Martins (Cruz), Vieri