Inter v WSG Wattens: comments from the key men

RISCONE DI BRUNICO – In the aftermath of the contest between Inter and WSG Wattens, the Nerazzurri’s first pre-season friendly ahead of the new season, Inter Channel heard from a selection of players from the home side.

Geoffrey Kondogbia commented: "It’s always nice to come here to Brunico – there are always so many people here.

"We won the game – we play to get results. It’s the first game we’ve played, so we’re trying to get our legs in gear."

As for how the French midfielder has found working with Inter’s new coach, Luciano Spalletti, he said: "It’s been a good fit. We’ve worked on our on-the-ball play. It’s still early days so we’ll see what happens.

"The youngsters are good players – they won the league last year. They need to put the work in, just as we do."

Meanwhile Nerazzurri goalkeeper Samir Handanovic appeared satisfied with the victory.

"It’s always nice to win – what counted was to put on a good performance," he said.

"In the first week back, you need time to readjust. Luckily everyone will be back tomorrow and then we can work on everything.

"We still need time – the friendlies are there for us to put ourselves to the test. The results aren’t what count – it’s early still."

A few of the youngsters that featured in the game also shared some of their thoughts on proceedings.

Xian Emmers said: "The first friendly went well – we won and that’s always nice. It’s great to play with the senior players, as it creates calm on the pitch.

"Spalletti is a great coach, who likes to play with the ball on the ground, with short passes.

"This is an incredible feeling and I am delighted," he added.

Matteo Rover, who scored Inter’s winning goal in the match, commented: "I finally got the call up to the first team – I’m happy with the pathway I’ve been on, from the Under-18 team to being here now.

"Spalletti has been helping me a great deal in these first few days. I’ve always wanted to make myself available. I follow his instructions.

"The first-team players give us good bits of advice too and help us when we make mistakes. They want to see us improve more than anyone.

"I’m really happy with my 45 minutes. I dedicate the goal to my parents, who are always by my side."