AC Milan coach Filippo Inzaghi said that he has been focusing on getting his players in shape for the derby rather than worrying about the fact that it will be Roberto Mancini’s first game back on the Inter bench.
Inzaghi also reiterated the importance of the game and said that the Rossoneri must win in front of their own fans at San Siro.
“The stars are on the pitch, I hope they will be my players,” said Inzaghi at the pre-match press conference when asked if he and Mancini will be the main attractions in the Derby della Madoninna.
“I hope that they make the fans happy.
“The squad has been training for this, I hope that the biggest boost to the team will arrive from our fans.”
Inzaghi was then asked if he had any difficulties on the training ground in preparing his side for the fixture.
“None, I thought about my players and how to use them so that they can play a great game,” the Rossoneri tactician continued.
“It will be difficult to beat this Milan.
“We need to start again from where we left off against Sampdoria.
“I was happy to hear that [Jean-Pierre] Papin said ‘This Milan team has a soul.'”
The Diavolo coach also spoke about the importance of a derby in terms of atmosphere and if it could play out as a game of attack versus defence.
“You can’t just speak about one area of the side, the team will have to be good all over the pitch,” he continued.
“Now, who the better team is, will be decided on the pitch.
“‘Mancio’ has experience from many derbies, we will see our stadium full and it won’t be like the other games.
“We have to win.”
