Spalletti: "Our main priority was to win"

MILAN - Luciano Spalletti’s side got back to winning ways at the Meazza on Saturday, beating Benevento thanks to goals from Skriniar and Ranocchia. They now move temporarily to third in the league standings: “When you question expectations that have been created, then it’s normal to feel burdened,” said the coach post-match. “We didn’t react in a strong manner, nor did we demonstrate great character, however, the main priority was to win this match and secure all three points. By achieving this, we can now regain some conviction.”

“The lads have found it tough of late and they demonstrated this right from kick-off. However, despite making many mistakes, the team played with heart tonight. Confusion often reigns during spells such as these, although heart can often find the solution. We played with more togetherness in the second half, passing the ball around better and with an increased level of calmness.”

There was also time for some comments on individuals: "Rafinha? I think that he was exceptional. I’m very pleased because I didn’t think that he’d be able to play for so long, with that work rate. He’s looking to get back to peak condition, he’d have liked to stay on for another five minutes but he also took some significant knocks. Icardi? There’s no need to make things up. He had a strain to the abductor, he really wants to be back and we want him with us again. Everyone wanted to be there tonight and to make a contribution. Had there been problems, I would have brought him on but the risk was very high because we’ve already rushed things too much which has paradoxically delayed his return. Now, we can manage things in the week to make sure that he’s ready for Sunday.”