Lecce 0-2 Inter Milan – Cristian Chivu Praises Italy Defender’s Professionalism & Confirms Liverpool Target ‘Will Be Back Tomorrow’ | OneFootball

Cristian Chivu was in a generous mood after Inter Milan’s 2-0 victory at Lecce, praising his squad’s collective mentality, drawing a line under the Alessandro Bastoni controversy, and delivering welcome news on the injury front ahead of Tuesday’s crucial Champions League second leg against Bodo/Glimt.

Speaking to both DAZN and the post-match press conference, Chivu was keen to credit his players for their ability to respond after a difficult week.

One that included a European defeat in Norway, a gruelling travel schedule and the loss of Lautaro Martinez to injury.

“I have to compliment these players for understanding the moment,” he said, via FCInterNews.

“Everything good they have done is entirely their merit. I have a fantastic group who give everything, mentally, physically, technically and tactically.”

On the performance itself, Chivu was pleased but grounded.

“We take it game by game, knowing we can win or lose, but always giving our maximum. That does these players credit.”

He was also candid about the fatigue his squad carried into the match.

“We were always travelling, four hours back from Bodo, half a day’s rest, then a final training session before travelling again. That makes it even more impressive.”

On Bastoni, who was whistled by sections of the crowd following his recent controversy, Chivu was emphatic.

“It’s a closed chapter. I appreciate this boy’s professionalism, he put his face forward, understood the error and apologised. That does him credit. The team and our ambitions come first, and he knows that.”

Lecce 0-2 Inter – Chivu: ‘Bastoni Professional, Dumfries Back Tomorrow’

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Denzel Dumfries of Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 31, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The best news came on the fitness front.

“Denzel will officially be back with the group from tomorrow,” Chivu confirmed.

“Calhanoglu will also be in training tomorrow.”

Both will be available for Tuesday’s tie.

Looking ahead to Bodo/Glimt, Chivu was bullish.

“Confidence, intensity and the belief that we can turn it around, because even in Bodo, on a difficult pitch, we had good moments,” he said, via FCInterNews.

“We hit two posts, created chances. We need to be careful about lost balls and quick transitions, but this group always gives everything they have.”

Asked how Inter have reached a point where the absence of Barella, Calhanoglu and Lautaro barely shows, Chivu smiled.

“I’ve always said it, all 24 players are starters. Maybe you didn’t take me seriously. Every one of them has important qualities, they feel involved, they have confidence and they know how important their contribution is.”