Ausilio: "We'll take stock at the end of the season"

GENOA – Piero Ausilio found time before kick-off this afternoon to give a short interview on Genoa v Inter.

"Barbosa on the bench? We’ve got a lot of options and the coach has the right to make his decisions," the sporting director answered on Stefano Pioli’s choice of line-up. "Eder, an Italy international, is starting and recent signings aren’t guaranteed to get in the team.

"We’ll take stock [of the results], but this isn’t something we do every week. No one would have questioned the job Pioli is doing a short while ago. We’ve had a tough April, but we’ll assess the situation at the end of May. There’s no shortage of belief in the gaffer; everyone can see the benefit of his work."

Finally, Ausilio addressed the possibility of new additions to the coaching staff.

"When my renewal was made official, I started thinking how I could expand the coaching team. A person on their own can’t do anything; it’s vital that the team works at its best. I’ve offered my ideas and suggestions, more about the qualities we’re looking for than actual people. Let’s see what the club intends to do.

"You shouldn’t ask me about AC Milan rumours," Ausilio concluded. "I haven’t spoken to anyone and anyway, after 20 years at Inter, I would never take the job."