Luciano Spalletti says he, and not his Inter players, is to blame for the 0-0 draw with Pordenone in the Coppa Italia.
The Nerazzurri eventually went through 5-4 on penalties against the third division side, but they were unimpressive after making nine changes.
“We talked about it in depth before the game, about the dangers we could encounter,” Spalletti said in today’s Press conference ahead of the Udinese game.
Luciano Spalletti says he, and not his Inter players, is to blame for the 0-0 draw with Pordenone in the Coppa Italia.
The Nerazzurri eventually went through 5-4 on penalties against the third division side, but they were unimpressive after making nine changes.
“We talked about it in depth before the game, about the dangers we could encounter,” Spalletti said in today’s Press conference ahead of the Udinese game.
“I think it’s wrong to say the players didn’t commit themselves, or that they played in second gear. Anyone who went on the pitch for Inter would be stronger than a Pordenone player.
“That means the problem was in the management of this strength, having a totally new team play didn’t help the lads. I created some difficulties.
“Having the chance to test the quality of you and your teammate gives players advantages and it couldn’t be otherwise, otherwise there wouldn’t be a core.
“The difference was made by my choices, if [Yann] Karamoh had half an hour in the team that has played most of the league then he’d seem like another player, the same is true for [Joao] Cancelo.
“I defend the players when it’s right to defend them, and in this case my choices affected the situation.
“Did I say anything to the youngsters? I said bravo, because they did well. Karamoh was sorry for the chances he missed, I made it clear to him that these things happen.
“The important thing is to train well and not lose your moral and technical qualities along the way.”
Spalletti then looked ahead to tomorrow’s match, and warned the Zebrette won’t be easy opposition.
“They took [Massimo] Oddo, a sharp lad who I already know something of from talking to some Pescara players.
“I’ve also worked with the Pozzo family, and they choose players to fit a structure. So we have a very tough opponent in terms of the things which will affect the game.
“The Coach is good, and he’s come to train a strong team. The pitfalls are there even in the colours of the shirts – bianconero.”