Simone Inzaghi explains his squad rotation in the 3-1 win over Udinese and keeps FC Porto guessing. ‘Romelu Lukaku is improving day by day.’
The coach made numerous changes in the build-up to the Champions League Round of 16 against FC Porto and that was a risk considering they were coming off a disappointing goalless draw with Sampdoria.
It was tough going for a while, Lukaku’s penalty cancelled out by Sandi Lovric, but Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Lautaro Martinez struck late on to secure the 3-1 victory.
This result keeps Inter in second place and 15 points from runaway leaders Napoli.
“We knew Udinese are a very physical side with good technique who cause you a lot of problems, as we already saw in the reverse fixture. It was a good first half with the only setback being the goal we conceded, when we should’ve been more focused on the loose ball,” Inzaghi told Sky Sport Italia.
“I am glad with the result, it is an important victory that allows us to keep going.”
Lukaku scored his first Serie A goal since the opening weekend against Lecce, only his third of the season in all competition.
“We need everyone and those who started or came off the bench today worked really hard. They all deserve to play for the work they put in, but a coach has to make choices.
“Lukaku is improving day by day, game by game, training session by training session. We have great faith in Rom. He had a few problems last season in London, we brought him back here and then he had this serious injury that troubled him for four months. If he is starting games, that means he is in good shape and playing will help him strengthen that form.”
Marcelo Brozovic made his return to the starting XI for the first time in five months, but Hakan Calhanoglu seems to have taken over as first choice for that midfield role, while Edin Dzeko is arguably preferred to Lukaku.
“The important thing for me is to have choices. Our first four months until the break for the World Cup we were stretched so thin. Experience tells me to wait and see how everyone is feeling, the decisions are all made for the good of Inter.”
The squad rotation this evening also saw Samir Handanovic brought back for the first time since October, as he played the first eight Serie A games and no other competitions.
“Handanovic would’ve played more earlier, but he had a few problems after our winter training camp in Malta. He is an important goalkeeper and we need his experience, as well as to allow Andre Onana a rest. We never had any doubts on Samir or any of the other players.”
Lautaro Martinez came off the bench and missed a big chance with an audacious lob, but then did score the third goal moments later.
At the final whistle, the Argentina international was seen shaking his head in irritation rather than celebrating the goal, as he was frustrated at not getting two.
“That is exactly what happened, he always gives his all, is one of our leaders and has to keep working this way, as he returned from the World Cup in excellent shape,” concluded Inzaghi.