Inter boss Cristian Chivu hopes his side can go on the offensive against rivals AC Milan as they seek to go 13 points clear at the top of Serie A with a victory.

Despite a difficult past few weeks, which has seen Inter eliminated from the Champions League in the playoffs by Bodo/Glimt, a win over their great rivals on Sunday would push them ever closer to regaining their Scudetto crown.

Inter have been unbeaten in the league ever since their 1-0 defeat to Milan in November, and have the opportunity to win 10 away Serie A matches in a row for the first time since a run between October 2006 and May 2007.

However, the Romanian believes the turning point in the league season did not occur after that defeat to their rivals, but in the 2-2 draw with Napoli in January, with Inter winning the resulting eight league games.

"Since the start of this year, we've improved and have a different approach to games, because we don't underestimate or over-estimate anyone," said Chivu.

"Milan have top individual players, but we must be the best version of ourselves.

"I expect consistency in all the good things we've done so far, and the way we reacted to a few defeats and disappointments, such as Bodo."

Milan have a chance to complete the league double over their rivals for the first time since 2010-11, during head coach Massimiliano Allegri's first spell in charge.

And Allegri is looking forward to the challenge of taking on the league leaders once again.

"The derby is always a special, special game. It’s beautiful to play and experience," Allegri said.

"It will definitely be a great evening of sport. But, the three points in the derby are worth the same as the three points next Sunday. 

"It's important to pick up points tomorrow, it won't be easy against a strong team. We know the importance of the game but we will try to get a result."

Allegri also dismissed reports linking him with Real Madrid, insisting that he was only at the beginning of his job at Milan, having only rejoined the club in the summer.

"I'm linked to Milan until 2027. My future is tomorrow. I'm fine at Milan and I'm very happy," Allegri added.

"We only started the journey in July. The club is working for the future.

"But until we reach our goal, we will have to stay focused on the present. We haven't achieved anything yet."