Inter-Napoli clash could define title race: Chivu
Inter Milan's huge tussle with Serie A title rival Napoli on Monday (AEDT) could be season-defining, Nerazzurri head coach Cristian Chivu has acknowledged.
Inter is three points clear of current city rival AC Milan at the top of the table after 18 matches, while defending champion Napoli is one point back of the Rossoneri in third place.
Monday's (AEDT) showdown at San Siro promises to be box-office viewing, particularly after Conte became embroiled in a war of words with the Inter hierarchy earlier this season.
Conte, who has repeatedly described Inter as the title favourite, clashed with Lautaro Martinez during the reverse fixture in October, which Napoli won 3-1.
Conte then accused Inter president Giuseppe Marotta of attempting to influence referees after the game, but Chivu insisted there is no bad blood between himself and the Napoli boss, while acknowledging the importance of the match.
"I have great respect for Conte as a coach. I faced him even when I was still playing. I congratulated him on what he managed to transmit to his team," Chivu said.
"We want to go seven clear, they want to go one behind us. The only certainty we have is that we have always worked well during this period.
"This team has always had desire and ambition. Maybe we'll have even more tomorrow. We are aware that it is a match that could influence the trajectory of the season."
Asked about Napoli's qualities, Chivu added: "They have changed their system and also some players. They have a strong squad and intensity.
"It will be a difficult match for both sides, a football game in which maximum focus will be on everyone's minds, to make as few mistakes as possible.
"It will be a game of moments, which is normal when you face teams of a certain level."
