Inter move surprised Palombo

Angelo Palombo has expressed his surprise at returning to Serie A with the help of a January move to Inter.

Unveiled to the Press on Thursday, Palombo, who signed on loan from Sampdoria on Tuesday and made his Nerazzurri debut on Wednesday admitted to the unexpected nature of the week that was.

Angelo Palombo has expressed his surprise at returning to Serie A with the help of a January move to Inter.

Unveiled to the Press on Thursday, Palombo, who signed on loan from Sampdoria on Tuesday and made his Nerazzurri debut on Wednesday admitted to the unexpected nature of the week that was.

“It was a last-minute deal and was a bit of a surprise really,” the 30-year-old said.

“The first sensations were even better than I could have imagined. This is one of the top clubs in the world and I'm very happy.

“[The debut against Palermo was] a great feeling. Playing at the Stadio Meazza is a wonderful feeling, it's the best.”

Brought in at San Siro as a replacement for departing international teammate Thiago Motta, Palombo admitted he is keen to use the opportunity to try to add to the 22 caps he has already won for Italy.

“Yes, there is that too. I'm here to improve my game and make myself available for the Coach. I am very grateful to the club, President [Massimo] Moratti and the Coach for giving me this opportunity.

“I'm very enthusiastic about it all and I'll try and do the best I can and show what I'm worth. I know that Inter already rated me a few years ago and I'm proud of that.

“The President surprised me because when I thanked him for the chance he had given me he replied 'Thank you'- and coming from man of his stature that gave me confidence. I'm truly grateful to him.

“As for my teammates, they were all marvellous and are trying to help me fit into the squad as quickly as possible. This is a squad I want to win with and I'll do my bit to help them improve even more.”

Palombo also took time to explain why he left Sampdoria when he did, having previously committed to stay with them in the summer after relegation to Serie B.

“I must thank everyone at Sampdoria, especially the fans who made me feel like one of them. The 10 years there are a piece of my heart and my life.

“However, I was very disappointed because I was told several times that I could no longer be a part of the project at the club.

“Clubs make choices they feel are right, even as opinion can be divided.”