Inter‘s recent friendly loss to Lecco, the upcoming Derby della Madonnina and the two rivals summer purchases.
Santon returned to Italy on a permanent basis over the summer after three and a half seasons with Premier League side Newcastle.
The 24-year-old spoke with FcInterNews.it about his conditioning and the unexpected loss to Serie D side Lecco.
“The coach wanted to try me as a central defender because so many people are away with the national team and it was a new role, which was difficult,” he said.
“Today did not go well, we had new players, many young people in the second half, but it was still a good game.
“Congratulations to Lecco who played a good game.
“Now we have to train well to prepare for the derby next week.
“We have begun the season with six points and we want to try to earn another three points against AC Milan with our winning mentality.”
The Italian international also took time to comment on Inter’s dealings in the summer transfer market, as well as speculate over how well Milan’s own purchases will fare.
“Felipe Melo has a lot of experience and quality and can make a difference,” Santon began.
“Alex Telles is still young but he has already played many matches with Galatasaray and will certainly help us.
“The retreat was long and tiring,” he continued, speaking about Inter’s training camp.
“I’m physically well, I’m coming back to top form, the coach is giving me confidence, we hope to continue on this road.
“Milan have made major purchases especially in attack, Mario Balotelli is back.
“I do not know if he will start from the beginning or start from the bench, but I think Milan have strengthened a lot and we have to be especially prepared.”
