Joao Mario wants to cap birthday with Palermo points

APPIANO GENTILE - Birthday boy Joao Mario says victory over Palermo at the weekend would be the perfect way to celebrate his big day.

The midfielder turned 24 on Thursday and after training with the rest of the team in preparation for Sunday's visit to the Stadio Barbera he chatted to Inter Channel.

“I'm really happy to be able to celebrate my birthday at Inter. Hopefully we'll be celebrating with three points on Sunday," Joao grinned.

“We have to go there and play our game. Palermo need points but we're Inter and we have to win our matches. We've been buoyed by our cup win in midweek.”

The Euro 2016 winner has only been at the club a few months but he's already won over the fans with his all-action displays in a Nerazzurri shirt.

“I'm very proud to know the fans appreciate my playing style. I have to keep it up and try to get even better.

“I'd like to thank them for all the nice messages they've sent me today. I hope to repay them with a win on Sunday.”