Inter Milan has scaled through the hurdles of Getafe in the last 16 of the Europa League and Antonio Conte is happy that the team got the needed win.
The Nerazzurri will be meeting the winner of the last 16 clash between Bayer Leverkusen and Glasgow Rangers in the quarter-final.
Expressing his delight in an interview with Sky Sport Italia, the former Chelsea manager said he was pleased that his lads were not afraid to get stuck in and fight for every ball against the Spanish team. He also said that they could have scored more goals in the game.
Goals from Romelu Lukaku and Christian Eriksen in Gelsenkirchen were enough to secure passage secured into the next round for the Italian side.
Getafe was also given a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty. Jorge Molina however, failed to equalize when the scoreline was 1-0, shooting the spot-kick off target.
Antonio Conte happy with Inter Milan’s performance
Speaking further, Conte stated that his team knew the difficulties the game could bring, and they prepared for it.
“Getafe started strong and we immediately got a forward run wrong with Stefan de Vrij. They were going for the second ball and to make it physical. They were stronger at the beginning, but we got the game in hand and started to pass the ball around.
“We expected it to be a ‘dirty’ game and we were not afraid to get dirty with them. That’s a great sign, as it’s that determination to get stuck in and fight for every ball, something we missed at times this season.”
Speaking on his team’s advancement to the next stage of the competition, Conte noted that it was also a chance to gain experience.
“I am happy with the performance. We could’ve had an even better scoreline. Romelu scored a great goal, attacking the space with the other striker moving towards him. I think Romelu took a while to get into the game, but then he made the difference as he stepped up a level. We had more chances to score.
“I am glad that the lads proved they want to keep going and aren’t ready to go on vacation yet.”
He further stated that he is glad to see his lads showing determination and hunger, adding that they are becoming a tough team.
“I’m happy for Christian Eriksen, as like all players, he needs a situation to go his way and suddenly everything seems positive. He’s a good lad, he knows I make choices for the good of Inter, but the fact he immediately got into the game and scored is important. Christian is part of the Inter squad, he is adapting and settling in.”
Conte excited about Sanchez transfer
Meanwhile, the tactician is also excited about the signing of Sanchez on a three-year permanent deal. The former Juventus coach said it was a great move made by the club.
Sanchez is expected to sign a three year deal with the club. That will also save Manchester United 10 million pounds in salaries after the Chilean terminated his contract with the Old Trafford outfit.
“I think the Alexis Sanchez move is a great one made by the club. Considering the conditions we managed to get Alexis, it was a really good transfer.
“He had come off two years when he was really struggling at Manchester United, then he got this injury with us and we took the time to get him back on track, so it’s only right that we are now able to reap the rewards of that effort.”
