Stevan Jovetic Sets Sights on Champions League Return for Inter
Roberto Mancini has been tasked with changing Inter's fortunes and Stevan Jovetic wants his teammates to target a push for Europe.
OMNISPORT
Stevan Jovetic is confident Inter can end its exile from the UEFA Champions League by sealing a top-three finish in Serie A this season.
The three-time champion of Europe has not participated in club football's elite competition since the 2011-12 campaign, when Marseille knocked it out in the last 16.
League finishes of sixth, ninth, fifth and eighth over the last four Serie A seasons have signalled a power shift in Italy, with Juventus replacing Inter as the dominant force, and striker Jovetic has been recruited by Roberto Mancini to help revive the club.
"Third spot? I think we can achieve that," said Jovetic, who joined from Manchester City last month. "There are lots of good sides in the league but we have a strong team."
Jovetic's claim is likely to raise a few eyebrows given that Inter has endured a tough preseason campaign, suffering defeats against Bayern Munich, Milan, Real Madrid and Galatasaray, as well as a goalless stalemate with AEK Athens.
Mancini's men failed to score during those five games, but Jovetic - who netted in a 2-0 friendly win over Athletic Bilbao in Parma - is unconcerned.
"We've trained well and the friendlies have really helped, despite the results," he said. "We're ready."
On joining Inter, he added: I've spoken with Roberto Mancini. I can play in a few positions and have felt good where I've played thus far.
"A promise to the fans? I don't want to set a target, but I'm sure I'll provide lots of goals and assists."