Inter Milan Manager Heaps Praise On Under Fire Albania Star: “Has Great Personality, Never Doubted Him” | OneFootball

Simone Inzaghi praised Inter Milan midfielder Kristjan Asllani ahead of tonight’s UEFA Champions League clash against Sparta Prague.

During an interview with Sky Sport via FCInterNews, he also explained what it’d take to beat the Czech side.

Inter compromised their chances of securing a top-eight finish in the previous round, losing at Bayer Leverkusen 1-0.

However, they’re still in control of their qualification fate and need four points from the last two rounds to achieve their goal.

Despite losing 3-1 on their last visit to the Epet Arena in 2016, Inzaghi’s men are hot favorites to avenge that defeat.

But the Nerazzurri boss expects Sparta to give his side a run for their money, nonetheless.

“They are a physical team, accustomed to playing these types of games.” he claimed.

“They started well but have suffered losses against top teams. Now, they’ve been inactive since December.

“We’ll aim to interpret the match correctly and set a high tempo.”

Simone Inzaghi Waxes Lyrical About Inter Milan Strugglers Kristjan Asllani

Asllani has deputized for Hakan Calhanoglu during the Turkish star’s spell on the sidelines with a muscle injury.

However, his performances have seen more than a few eyebrows raised, with many questioning his qualities.

Luckily for the Albanian ace, Inzaghi isn’t among his detractors.

“He’s showing great personality,” the Inter coach was adamant.

“It’s not easy for anyone to replace Calhanoglu, but he’s doing it well, with consistent performances.

“I had no doubts about him; he has everyone’s trust, and we’re happy to have him.”

Meanwhile, Inzaghi fielded Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram in a Champions League match for the first time in ten months.

“We hope they’ll make the difference, and we’re counting on it,” Inzaghi explained.

“In the last few matches, I’ve rotated them, but tonight they’ll start together from the first minute.

“We also have Taremi and Arnautovic, who can come on and help us.”