Thiago Motta spoke exclusively to Sky Sports on the eve of his first Italian derby on the bench of Juventus:
What week was it? After the first defeat, did you have to work on the players’ minds?
“I didn’t have to work on the players’ heads. The defeat is new for us, but it’s a closed chapter. Now the concentration is on tomorrow’s match, in a great environment. As usual we will give 200%.”
What game will it be? Inter are very different from Stuttgart…
“It will be a great match. We are the favorites for the scudetto and as always we will face the match at our best, determined to do what is best and not let the match go on its tracks.”
He experienced the best year in Inter’s history. What reception do you think you will find?
“I have good memories at Inter and every time I have had a good welcome because I have always behaved in the right way, regardless of sporting results. It will be a nice environment to live in.”
Will Perin still be in goal? Will you recover any of the players out in the Champions League?
“We will not recover any of the injured players, our goalkeepers can all play.”
It seems that Yildiz is experiencing a moment of confusion. Does it also depend on his position on the pitch?
“Yildiz is fine, he needs to improve in all aspects of the game, but like everyone else. He must always be connected to the team, from the defensive phase to concentration. He is a young man, but already a great player who we must exploit in the way better, both as a winger and as a midfielder. However, I am convinced that great players can play anywhere and very well.”
Will you be happy tomorrow if…?
“Nothing changes, it’s a game to be approached in the right way, playing good football and increasing our chances of winning.”