Pioli expects tough ride at Bologna

APPIANO GENTILE – Stefano Pioli is wary of the threat posed by Sunday's opponents Bologna and insists his team must keep focusing on one game at a time.

The Nerazzurri face Roma in a week's time in what many people have described as a decisive match for Inter's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League, but the coach is adamant all the focus remains on this weekend's fixture at the Stadio Dall'Ara.

"I am worried about our next game, as you should be when you play any team away in Serie A. It's a very important match for us so I won't be thinking about players possibly picking up suspensions," Pioli told journalists during a press conference at Suning Training Centre in memory of Angelo Moratti.

Asked if Bologna could prove to be a turning point in the season, the manager replied: "Every single training session can be a turning point. Obviously there are areas where we must improve and we need to give our absolute all if we want to continue this good run of form we're on.

“We're focused on preparing as best we can. We know where we started off and where we want to get to. We're thinking positive and will keep pushing to obtain the best we possibly can.

“Bologna have lost their last two home games but they've picked up nearly all of their points at home this season. It's going to be a tough game, as it was when we played them in the cup. We're preparing well so that we can go out there and perform at our very best.”

Pioli also discussed Ever Banega's availability and position.

“Banega has trained with the team and unless he has any problems he'll be available for Bologna. He's the sort of player who's more inclined to play in the opposition half and set up team-mates rather than take up defensive positions.”

On his team's playing style: “We're harder to break down now regardless of the formation we play – and that itself changes depending on which team is in possession. When we lose the ball on Sunday we'll need to be very good at winning it back quickly and playing simple, effective football."

Finally, Pioli was asked about his time at Bologna, where he began his coaching career and returned to manage from 2011 to 2014.

“I have lots of wonderful memories of my time at Bologna but we'll be on opposite sides tomorrow.”