Cristian Chivu was pleased to finally see Djed Spence in action, and praised Pio Esposito’s selflessness after Inter’s 3-0 win over Parma.
With quotes via FcInterNews, the Nerazzurri coach spoke to DAZN and then at his post-match press conference after a victory wrapped up inside 31 minutes. The result moves Inter three points clear at the top ahead of Sunday’s games.
Chivu admitted the three-week break had been an unknown quantity.
“It was an unknown after three weeks off. That had never happened before, and we didn’t know how it would go. But over these weeks the lads worked well. They had enthusiasm and were keen to do certain training sessions, and those who stayed here made their contribution. I’m happy with the energy, the quality we showed and how quickly we adapted to the opponent, because we didn’t have much information on how they might play. I gave minutes to those who were behind, and I’m happy to have rested those who gave a lot for their national teams.”
Pio Esposito won the penalty that Hakan Calhanoglu converted and was involved in the build-up to Marcus Thuram’s goal, and Chivu was full of praise.
“His main characteristic is generosity. Selfishness isn’t part of his vocabulary. He works for the team, he works well, he counter-presses too, he reacted and he was able to do certain things. When you lose the ball and go and win it back, you’ve also done excellent mental work. He has room to improve. He’s a lad who works hard and puts himself at the group’s disposal, and the group sees him as someone who will give us an important hand, as he has so far.”
Chivu on Spence, Calhanoglu and Dimarco
Spence made his debut after a month on the sidelines, and Chivu warned against expecting too much too soon, with Club Brugge visiting on Tuesday.
“Let’s enjoy his first 25 minutes, and not forget that he’s only been training with the team for a week. You can’t ask too much of him or you’ll push him into the red. Hopefully, by playing and training every day, his condition will improve. I’m pleased to see him on the pitch after what he’s been through this month while unavailable. Today San Siro gave him a shot of adrenaline, and that will help all of us.”
Calhanoglu was spotted with ice after coming off, but Chivu insisted there was no problem.
“I didn’t see the ice. No, he’s fine. He played a great hour to improve his condition. We need everyone for the tough run ahead of us. Tonight was the right moment to play him, and we’ve been forced to make these kinds of choices. We’re happy with his response and with the others’.”
Carlos Augusto, again on the left of the back three, also earned praise.
“Not just this season. Last year and in previous seasons too, he’s shown his qualities as a wing-back and as a centre-back in a back three. He has physical strength and energy in duels, but also when overlapping. He has an impressive long-range shot. We’re happy to have him with us, and to have a player who understands his qualities and puts them at the service of the group.”
Federico Dimarco was regularly seen drifting over to the right, and Chivu explained the freedom he gives his players.
“It’s about how we occupy the pitch. If someone rotates over to his side, he’s free to come inside. Sometimes he plays as a striker, sometimes as a mezzala. Today he put in a cross from the right wing-back position. He’s also good at counter-pressing ferociously, but he needs to get back into position more quickly. We have players evolved enough to adapt to a back four too. My players are evolved, and they’re enjoying themselves.”
Chivu also had words of sympathy for Carlos Cuesta, sacked by Parma despite winning his last game against Genoa, and backed Alberto Gilardino to succeed.
“I’m always sorry when a coach is sent away, just as I’m happy for the one who comes in. That’s a coach’s life: you know you’re not on a permanent contract, and you’re judged on a lot of things. We’re talking about two great coaches. I’m sorry for Cuesta, but I’m happy for Gila, who has an opportunity at a club that wants to do certain things. I’m convinced he’ll deliver an important season, partly because Parma deserve it.”
