Inter sets sights on clinching Scudetto early
Inter Milan is just one win away from clinching a 21st Serie A title, with head coach Cristian Chivu's side keen to get the job done against his former club, Parma, on Monday (AEST).
Current title holder Napoli stayed within the title race after its goalless draw with Como on Sunday (AEST), moving it nine points behind Inter.
Chivu's side dropped two points last weekend after surrendering a 2-0 lead against Torino, and the head coach hopes his players can bounce back.
"When you are up 2-0, you think everything is easy and that you have everything under control," he said.
"Then, you concede to make it 2-1 because of a mistake while playing out from the back, and the ghosts start creeping in; you get nervous.
"You begin to realise it won't be easy after all, especially when a few incidents go against you. In my view, the comeback could have ended even worse.
"Apparently, I didn't do my job properly when we were leading 2-0. I take responsibility, but it changes little. We need three points, and we want to kill it off as soon as possible."
Ironically, Inter could seal the Scudetto against its head coach's former employer, with Chivu having steered Parma to top-flight safety at the end of last season.
However, the Nerazzurri boss was quick to dismiss any sentimental links.
"Zero. I'm only focused on my job and my duty," he added.
"I don't think about emotions. I must prepare for the match as best I can and provide the right motivation.
"It's our dream. It started nine months ago. I think about taking home one of the season's objectives. I must transmit serenity and ambition, but also desire and the appropriate attitude; the rest doesn’t count."
