Defender Andrea Ranocchia brushed off Press criticism and asserts he is ready to play a captain's role for Inter against Celtic.

The Nerazzurri will be up against the Scottish club tomorrow evening for the first leg in the Europa League's Round of 32.

On from Coach Roberto Mancini's statements that Inter want to 'go all the way', the 27-year-old added his own emphasis on the significance of the game.

“It's very important for me,” he said in today's Press conference.

Defender Andrea Ranocchia brushed off Press criticism and asserts he is ready to play a captain's role for Inter against Celtic.

The Nerazzurri will be up against the Scottish club tomorrow evening for the first leg in the Europa League's Round of 32.

On from Coach Roberto Mancini's statements that Inter want to 'go all the way', the 27-year-old added his own emphasis on the significance of the game.

“It's very important for me,” he said in today's Press conference.

“These are the games that make you develop. They're in-out games that let players grow, especially the younger ones.

“And playing in a stadium like this is something special, a great experience.

“I am often under the spotlight, but really I'm doing fine from a psychological point of view.

“I've grown, I've been here four years now. I'm wearing the captain's armband and I'm ready to face the next few matches.

“The Press and the media like to question me, but I'm getting better thanks to the Coach's suggestions.

“I'm feeling fine and I'm available, just like I was in the last few games.

“There are no worries. I'm doing well both mentally and physically.”

Ranocchia was also asked whether he felt the shadow of the European Cup final between Inter and Celtic in 1967, which saw the Scottish team winning by 2-1.

“The famous final doesn't faze me, to be honest.

“It's been such a long time. But we entertain strong feelings about this particular game.

“There will be no pressure, only positive energy.

“That's just what you need in this sport, and tomorrow will be a great game of football.”

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