Spalletti: "This squad has huge margin for growth"

SINGAPORE - Luciano Spalletti believes Inter's performance against Bayern showed a glimpse of his team's potential - but warns they still have a lot of growing to do before they can compete regularly at this level.

“We played well today. We kept our shape and closed down our opponents well. If we want to be picky, perhaps we weren't quite so sharp in possession in the second half," the boss began.

“Inter must show the desire to go toe to toe with teams of this level. We've beaten Bayern today but we still have to improve a lot. You need lots of quality to produce top performances. When you come up against sides like Bayern you have to be at the top of your game or it's very hard indeed to come away with a result.

“It's always good to win matches as it brings a feel-good factor - and that helps in football. When you believe in what you're doing, it helps you to do better next time. The players know I don't tell them lies. I've got a good bunch of lads here and I believe they have huge margin for growth."

Quizzed about similarities between Joao Mario and Radja Nainggolan, the coach added: “No two players are the same but top players are always capable of winning games for you. Radja is more likely to burst forward while Joao is better on the ball and in tight spaces."

Spalletti then restated his opinion on Ivan Perisic, who set up Eder's second today.

“I know what Perisic can do and so does everyone else. Nothing's changed in my view. He's a great player, he's an Inter player and I'd like to keep him here. Then of course you have to consider the club's view and the player's view as well."