Post by Taxigirl on Jan 10, 2004 11:24:41 GMT
Alberto Zaccheroni will take a trident attack to the Stadio Tardini for tonight's stern test of Inter's title potential.
“I don’t believe in change for the sake of it,” insisted the Nerazzurri boss. “I will field three upfront again and as long as the midfield helps out then there shouldn’t be a problem.”
Alvaro Recoba has not even made the trip due to a left thigh problem, so the front three should again be Christian Vieri, Obafemi Martins and Julio Cruz.
Zaccheroni has certainly improved their Serie A results since taking charge, but the difficulty they showed in eventually beating Lecce 3-1 on Tuesday attracted criticism from the local press.
“We played a terrible first half,” he admitted, “but once the squad got its shape back then we dominated.”
“There are pros and cons to fielding this type of system, but if everybody runs off the ball then there is no need for another midfielder.”
Francisco Farinos was started against Lecce and is fast becoming a mainstay of Zac’s side – ironic for a player who was signed at the behest of Hector Cuper and largely ignored by the Argentine.
“I do like the way Farinos plays,” explained Zaccheroni, “and if he is fit then he will be in the starting eleven.”
Inter have only ever won once at the Tardini – last season’s 2-1 victory – but they will be expected to take advantage of Parma’s recent financial upheaval.
“Ancona thought that too and lost 2-0 on Tuesday,” pointed out the Coach. “Parma are a great team and Cesare Prandelli has done well to bring balance to the squad. They work as a team and we must do the same.”
That victory and the Christmas break has seemingly restored calm in the Inter camp following the 2-1 defeat at Lazio.
Even Christian Vieri was seen smiling after his 100th official goal for the club and he has ended his press silence.
“I was very happy to see him talking again,” noted Zac. “Inter have seven million fans and they all want to know what’s happening within the team. I think it only right to answer their questions.”