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The Nerazzurri maintained their three-point advantage over rival AC Milan at the summit with a 1-0 win over Lecce on Thursday (AEDT), thanks to Esposito’s winner off the bench.

Milan kept the pressure on with a win at Como on Friday (AEDT), handing out the first defeat for Cesc Fabregas's team at home this season.

Along with its lead over Milan,though,  Inter is also six clear of Serie A holder Napoli and seven ahead of Luciano Spalletti’s Juventus.

When asked if their growing lead adds more motivation or pressure, Esposito was adamant it was the former.

“It motivates us, we cannot be afraid when that is our objective. Every game is difficult, as we saw once again, but we want to hang in there,” Esposito said.

After Esposito's winner against Leece, Inter head coach Cristian Chivu ran on to the pitch to celebrate with the striker.

Chivu also coached Esposito during their days in the youth set-up, and the 20-year-old explained the importance of his relationship with the coach.

“I saw the coach there, I’m happy, as he had rushed up to celebrate with us when he was the coach of the Primavera youth team too,” Esposito said.

“Our bond is made up of few words, but a lot of affection. He’s one of those people who doesn’t need to say much, you just know he’ll be there for you.

“I’ve known him for years, we practically ‘grew up’ together, him as a coach and me as a player, in the youth team. It’s a very important relationship for me.”

Udinese drew 2-2 at home to Pisa in its most recent league match, leaving it 10th in Serie A and eight points off the European places.

It has, however, only won once in its past five matches in the competitions, losing twice, a run that started with a 5-1 defeat at Fiorentina.