Former Inter and Liverpool midfielder Paul Ince previews tomorrow’s Champions League clash between his ex clubs, highlighting how the Nerazzurri’s defensive solidity will be crucial to beat the Reds.
The former England midfielder spent two seasons with the Nerazzurri before joining Liverpool in 1997. He scored 13 goals in 73 appearances with the Serie A giants and managed 17 in 81 appearances at Anfield Road.
Tomorrow, his ex clubs meet in the opening leg of the Champions League Round of 16 at the Stadio Meazza and although Liverpool are the favourite to qualify for the quarter-finals, Ince believes that Inter have a fair chance to go beyond the Round of 16.
“It’s a hard task, but not impossible,” the 54-year-old told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Inter’s problem is Liverpool’s attack. Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané are not tired and Inter must pay attention to Jota and Firmino’s late runs. Inter must make the most of San Siro’s magic in the first leg even if playing at Anfield Road is not easy, Barcelona know it well…”
So, how could Inter beat Liverpool tomorrow?
“The wing-backs can cause trouble to Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold who can leave gaps at the back. Denzel Dumfries has been improving and Ivan Perisic is a certainty. Inter have quality everywhere.”
Ince praised Nicolò Barella, who will miss both games against Liverpool due to a two-match ban. Arturo Vidal will likely replace the Italy international tomorrow, but Ince believes the game ‘won’t be decided in the middle of the park.’
“There will be a huge battle in midfield, but I think that the duel between Inter’s defence and Liverpool’s attack will be decisive for the result.”
How about Simone Inzaghi? What does Ince make of the Inter coach?
“Here in England, Inzaghi means Filippo, but everyone knows Simone’s qualities now. I like his passion which makes him similar to Jurgen Klopp, who has accustomed Liverpool not to have fear.
“For Simone, it will be the best night to prove that he is a top coach. Inter are technically better than under Antonio Conte even if winning the Serie A title will be more difficult because there’s more competition this season.”