Inter welcome Roma to the San Siro

Inter Milan host Roma with both sides in incredible form and looking to put in another impressive performance. 

The two teams have won five of their last six games in Serie A. Inter sit at the top of the table with 12 wins in 14 games, while Roma just broke into the top five after an away win against Hellas Verona with three goals to one. 

Both rosters have players with remarkable numbers, Nerazurri’s Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez have been outstanding in the final third scoring 10 and eight goals respectively. Whilst Lorenzo Pellegrini is the second-best creator of the league with six assists for the capital’s club.

Despite their differences, the home side haven’t won this fixture when it has been played in Milan since 2015 and will be looking to change this poor record and will try to make the most out of their opposition’s missing players.

Team News:

The Giallorossi are missing Kluivert as confirmed by manager Paulo Fonseca: ‘’ The tests on Kluivert came back clear but he’s still feeling some pain so he won’t play.”

 Argentine midfielder Javier Pastore remains absent for the clash as well, whilst goalkeeper Pau Lopez might not be playing as well after struggling with a muscle problem in his thigh, the decision will be left as late as possible for the manager to take. 

However, after picking up a fever, striker Edin Dzeko might get some game time, the Roma boss added: “He’d not trained for a few days but he trained with us today and he’s ready to play.’’ Chances of him starting are almost not present, a place on the bench is the most probable option for the Bosnian.

 Also, after serving his suspension young star, Nicolo Zaniolo will be available to start. Diego Perotti and Henrikh Mkhitaryan can also be picked: ‘’Mkhitaryan and Perotti are both in good physical condition.’’

Considering the men in black and blue, a lack of depth in midfield due to injuries might set a challenge for manager Antonio Conte, a statement from the club confirmed Roberto Gagliardini will miss the game this weekend:

“Roberto Gagliardini underwent medical exams today at the Istituto Humanitas in Rozzano. Tests revealed tendon damage in the sole of his right foot. Gagliardini’s condition will be re-evaluated next week.’’  He will be joining the sidelines along Stefano Sensi and Nicolo Barella. 

Antonio Conte, however, remains positive:

“I always want to look at the glass half full. The lads have taken on a lot responsibility. I want us to keep this up and play with pride.

“It’s a hard game, we know that. It is a very hard test for us all. Roma are having a good run of results, they are full of confidence. Inter will have to dig deep. It is going to be a very tricky game.’’

On the other side, Paulo Fonseca praised his opposition:

“Conte is a fantastic coach. Inter are in great form and have a clearly defined playing style. It will be a very difficult game.

“There are lots of difficulties. Inter are strong in every aspect of the game. They build the play with three central defenders and they have a really interesting dynamic – they’re very good.’’

Head-to-head:

Inter Milan wins: 84

Draws: 54

Roma wins: 56

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