Inter boss Simone Inzaghi notes Nicolò Barella ‘always wants to win’ and says the biggest motivation for the Nerazzurri against Udinese is to win in front of their fans.
The Benamata host the Bianconeri at San Siro on Saturday at 19.45 GMT.
Inzaghi didn’t hold a press conference but replied to questions from Inter TV previewing the match against Andrea Sottil’s side.
“We always play to win every match. Luck was not on our side in Genoa, we need to be more clinical in front of the goal the team had the right attitude, we gave our all to win,” he said.
“Our solidity lately is a very encouraging factor, the team is defending as one, together. It’s going to be a tough match tomorrow. Udinese are a good team, they are strong technically and physically.
“We will need to be at our best. I may be repetitive but despite the Champions League on the horizon, the focus is on Inter-Udinese,” continued the coach.
“I think that our biggest motivation tomorrow comes from wanting to win in front of our fans.
“I will make the necessary assessments. I will rely on all players, the starters and those on the bench.”
Barella was involved in an on-field argument with his teammate Romelu Lukaku in the first half of a 0-0 draw against Sampdoria on Monday, so Inzaghi was asked why the Italian midfielder looks a bit more irritable than usual lately.
“Barella is totally committed to the cause, he has so much motivation, he always wants to win,” noted Inzaghi.
“The desire can at times spill over, but we all know what kind of person he is. I have confidence in him and the rest of the team.”
Inter decided against fining Barella and Lukaku who are said to have cleared the air at Suning Training centre.
The Nerazzurri sit second in the Serie A table but are 15 points below table leaders Napoli. Next week they host Porto.