Piero Ausilio before Inter v Sassuolo

MILAN – Piero Ausilio was interviewed by Mediaset Premium before Inter’s Serie A Week 36 clash against Sassuolo on Sunday lunchtime.

"It’s never easy to take these decisions, especially when you’re talking about a great person like Pioli, who gave 110% for Inter," began Ausilio. "We took the extreme measure of changing the coach, in order to make the players take responsibility for a situation that nobody likes. I’m still convinced that we have a quality squad, but we need to show character.

"Sabatini? I’ve heard all sorts. I knew about it before I signed my new contract and Sabatini knew I’d be extending. We respect each other, we know each other and we can work together for the good of Inter. Will I resign? Absolutely not. I’ve never considered it and never will. The club’s actions show that they have faith in me.

"Pepe? It’s an idea. People are saying the contract has already been signed, but there’s nothing there in reality. Next season is vital for this new Inter side – we have to get back into the Champions League. The first thing we need is a new coach, so there’s no point in speaking about transfer targets yet. We know what good coaches there are and we have ambitious ideas, but I don’t want to name names. We’re taking out time to reorganise and kick on with the project."