Conte: “It wasn’t easy to win, we want to be a tough team to play”

MILAN - “I’ve complimented the guys because we faced a strong team and it wasn’t easy to get the three points.” This was Antonio Conte as he looked back over the win against Udinese on matchday three in Serie A TIM. 

The match was won by Stefano Sensi’s great goal in the 44th minute as the Nerazzurri remain on full points. “We could have finished it off earlier because they have very good players on the break and they can attack the space,” the Coach added. “We always have to fight in every game, we must not think about anyone or anything else but focus on our path. We’ve not done anything yet but we can be proud because nobody has given us anything, we have to keep it up in the knowledge that we have seven games in 23 days where we can come up with big responses. We’ll need everyone and I’m happy today because those who played less in the first two games made their contributions. There’s a lot to work on but we’re carrying out this work and we want to be a tough team for anyone to face.” 

On individuals: “Sensi? I’m happy for him and his goal. He’s someone who sees and understands football. This allows you to find different solutions, like the 3-4-2-1 tonight. This is a positive because the more the players know, the more you can change and be unpredictable. Candreva? Antonio had a good game. He has to always be on it because he was making some mistakes in the second half but he knows that I have faith in him. We need to keep working and know that it won’t be easy because the standard of the league has improved. Godin? I’m happy because he hadn’t played for two months and he was punished by an injury in pre-season. He came in and did well, he brings us experience and solidity. He’s also good with his feet and this is important because I want the centre-backs to be the first players who launch our moves. We’re working a lot to give them options to find with their passes. Lukaku? He had an issue with his back and wasn’t at his best so he wasn’t brilliant. Barella? I took him off at the break only because he was booked and I didn’t want to take any chances.”  

“Away from the result, our fans have to be happy because the guys gave 200 per cent and they’re working in the right way,” said the Coach to finish.