Simone Inzaghi warns the synthetic pitch ‘clearly does make a big difference’ for Inter against Young Boys in the Champions League tomorrow, as he evaluates the midfield injury crisis.
It kicks off at the Stadion Wankdorf on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
The Nerazzurri have had a strong start in Europe, earning a 0-0 draw away to Manchester City and then beating Crvena Zvezda 4-0 at San Siro.
It means they are yet to concede a goal, but the biggest danger might be the distraction of their upcoming Serie A showdown with Juventus this weekend.
“We know that we have to take it one game at a time, so that won’t be a risk,” assured Inzaghi in his press conference.
“Young Boys had a few problems at the start, but on Sunday they beat Luzern, so we need to be wary.”
Another issue is that the stadium has a synthetic pitch, which can lead to more injuries and an awkward bounce of the ball for those who are not accustomed to it.
“Clearly, it does make a big difference and it is not the same as playing on grass. We decided to change a few habits so we could prepare for it, spending an hour on an artificial turf.”
Inzaghi dealing with Inter injury crisis
Piotr Zielinski and Kristjan Asllani missed the Serie A victory away to Roma on Sunday, while Hakan Calhanoglu, Francesco Acerbi and Alessandro Bastoni limped off.
“The squad rotation is very limited. I have good sensations that Zielinski can play tomorrow, but I have to evaluate today’s training session.
“As for Bastoni, I am evaluating both him and Federico Dimarco.”
With the midfield choices reduced by injuries, could Italy international Nicolò Barella take over as playmaker from Calhanoglu?
“I am pleased with how Barella played against Roma, just as he did last season with Lecce or Udinese. Either Barella or Zielinski will play in that role tomorrow, then Davide Frattesi will play and a few others can come in too,” explained Inzaghi.
It is a return to Switzerland for goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who this season retired from international duty.
“It does help that he is with us for more training sessions. I can only speak highly of Sommer, we signed a great man as well as a great goalkeeper.”