Nemanja Vidic has to “adapt” to Italian referees as well as players and saw similarities between Walter Mazzarri and Sir Alex Ferguson.
Inter visit Palermo on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
Nemanja Vidic has to “adapt” to Italian referees as well as players and saw similarities between Walter Mazzarri and Sir Alex Ferguson.
Inter visit Palermo on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“It was good that we won the last game and important we get used to winning the games, so we can get more confidence and enjoy our football,” said the former Manchester United defender in a Press conference.
“It is good that we keep clean sheets, but the main thing is to win the game. A clean sheet helps, but it’s not the most important thing.”
Vidic returns from suspension after a controversial red card for what the referee considered to be sarcastic applause.
“Obviously I have to adapt. I am still learning the way I have to play in Italian football and that includes the referees, the way they manage the games and hopefully I’ll do that as soon as possible.
“To be fair, I believe the referees have a hard job because the players sometimes try to make situations happen, asking for penalties or fouls. I have to say in England they didn’t do that as much as here, so it’s difficult for referees.
“I have to adapt to not just the referees, but also the way they play here. I spoke to the club and they explained the things I shouldn’t do here and what will get me punished. I don’t want the team to risk bad situations here.
“If you ask me what I prefer, then that’s to play the way I play in England, as I believe it’s more honest and respectful. Sometimes these situations can happen to you and sometimes to your opponents, but neither way is good. I am here to adapt, not to change the mentality.”
Vidic is not holding back on his ambitions at San Siro this season.
“It is important to win the next match and see where it takes us. I would like to have a good season, to finish in the top three and possibly even win the Scudetto, but we’ll see how it goes match by match and at the end where we are.”
The former Manchester United defender was asked if he saw similarities between Inter Coach Mazzarri and Manchester United legend Ferguson.
“They have a similar approach to the team, as they want a good group and a good atmosphere. In that way they have the same philosophy, that it is more about the group than individuals.
“In terms of tactics, Mazzarri has a three-man defence and I am still working hard on adapting. I am feeling more and more comfortable in this position and hopefully in future it’ll be even better. In these first few matches the team showed defensive solidity and worked together.”
The Serbia international arrived as a free agent after his contract with Manchester United expired.
“When it came to leave United, it was not something I decided by myself. I left the club in a good way and we always had a good relationship, so there was no talk about coming back or playing against Manchester United.
“It was exciting, but it was not the first time I had the chance to come to Italy. This time it was a great moment for me, Inter are a big club and it was a great place to prove I am still capable of playing good football and try myself in another League.
“It was strange at the beginning in a different environment, training centre and kit, but now I feel like home and I’m really comfortable here.”