AC Milan vs Inter Milan preview - Mancini ready for derby return

Posted Sunday, November 23, 2014 by PA

Roberto Mancini will make his return as Inter Milan manager in Sunday's derby against AC Milan - and he is relishing the occasion.

Mancini replaced Walter Mazzarri last week, returning after six years away from the San Siro and spells in charge of Manchester City and Galatasaray.

He will be charged with lifting the team from ninth place, five points outside the top three, to challenge for Champions League qualification and is upbeat about the task.

"I inherited a team in good shape," he told the club's official website. "We've trained well but you can't expect to do all that much in just four days.

"I'm not used to battling for third place, but we mustn't look at the table. We can do that in a few months' time, for now let's just concentrate on getting as many points on the board as possible."

There is no more high-profile start to that assignment than the clash between city rivals, but Mancini said: "I have a good feeling about tomorrow.

"The derby is a huge game and I feel the same way I usually feel before a match like this. We've been working well and we'll make sure we put on our best display tomorrow.

"The derby is a match that can always go either way. There'll be lots of talented players on show and it will be a great spectacle for everyone."

Milan are only one point and two places better off in the table, but their coach Filippo Inzaghi is refusing to attach additional importance to the derby.

"I have the same thrill as for every game," he told the club's official website. "When we get to the pitch we understand it is a game like any other.

"You have to try to win in every way, we have great respect for Inter, but we want to satisfy all our fans."

Regarding Mancini's appointment, he said: "Inter has changed for Mancini, but you cannot talk about the advantages or disadvantages.

"I'm sorry for Mazzarri because he is a colleague and a good coach. He will return stronger than before because in 13 years he had never been sacked."

A thigh injury to Alex has added to Inzaghi's defensive problems, with Ignazio Abate already injured and Daniele Bonera suspended. Cristian Zapata, though, will provide an able partner for Philippe Mexes.