Romelu Lukaku thanks Inter fitness staff and the fans for having the patience to wait for his full recovery after today’s brace against Empoli. ‘Inter gave me everything and I must give everything to Inter.’
The Nerazzurri booked their place in the Champions League semi-final this week, where they will face Milan, and are preparing for Wednesday’s Coppa Italia semi-final against Juventus.
They needed to get back on track in Serie A and achieved it in style, as Lukaku bagged a brace – his first two goals from open play in the league since August – and provided an assist for Lautaro Martinez in the 3-0 victory.
“We must always thank the fans, because every game they give faith to the players to do better. This has been a very complicated season for us and we thank the fans for their support,” Lukaku told Sky Sport Italia.
“I am quicker in the change of pace, we are doing great work with the fitness staff. That injury was the most serious of my career, it had never happened to me before, but I am getting more confident and want to keep helping the team.”
It has been a difficult few days for Lukaku, who saw his two yellow cards in the Coppa Italia upheld when reacting to racist abuse from Juventus fans, but the ban was then revoked by the FIGC.
It means he will be able to face the Bianconeri at San Siro on Wednesday, with everything to play for after the 1-1 first leg result.
In fact, his goal celebration in Turin was no different to his usual, it was only interpreted by the referee as ‘mocking’ the home fans.
“I want to thank the President of the FIGC for giving me the opportunity to play that game. It is a step forward for Italian football. I now just want to look forward and help prepare for the match.
“I always want to do better, to give more for Inter. As I said, Inter gave me everything and I must give everything to Inter.”
Lukaku is still only on loan from Chelsea and it remains to be seen if the clubs will even attempt to renew that agreement.
“We need to wait, because the others are talking. I just have to give my best for Inter,” he also told DAZN.