Conte hails ´feel-good factor´ but demands no let-up from Inter

Antonio Conte says Inter’s run of just one defeat in nine matches has led to a “feel-good factor” at San Siro but he has warned his players against complacency ahead of their clash with struggling SPAL.

Inter are second in Serie A, one point behind leaders Juventus, as they prepare to face 19th-placed SPAL on Sunday, and Conte was in ebullient mood in his pre-match press conference.

The Nerazzurri returned to form in the Champions League by beating Slavia Prague 3-1 on Wednesday and victory at home against SPAL would extend Inter’s Serie A winning streak to five matches.

Conte was asked how he intends to maintain his side’s strong form in order to keep Inter’s title challenge on course, and he called for everyone at the club to keep their feet on the ground.

“In the league and in Europe we are doing very well,” Conte told reporters. “In Europe we have played with real pride. Even when we lost we gave a good performance.

“We have always played every game on level terms. In Europe the situation is in our hands again. That is very encouraging.

“I am very optimistic and pleased with the feel-good factor. However, we cannot get carried away and must stay grounded. We need to make sure we are realistic.

“We have lots of confidence and that should spur us on. Let’s beat SPAL and keep going. I want to see the same spirit and desire. I want us to be hungry.”

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Racing towards #InterSPAL! pic.twitter.com/nNGUNDGoTm

— Inter (@Inter_en) November 29, 2019

Martinez has already matched his league goal tally from last season by scoring six this term and Lukaku has endeared himself to Inter fans with 10 goals in 13 league appearances since his £75million transfer from Manchester United.

“Lautaro Martinez and Romelu Lukaku aren’t the same strikers who started the season,” said Conte.

“They are both atypical modern strikers, as they can be a centre-forward or a support striker, they work hard for their team-mates and are really developing an understanding with each other.

“They have grown a lot. They have come a long way since the start of the season. They have a good understanding. They are working very well and very hard.

“The goals are coming which is important. But the whole team play their part. I am attentive at both ends of the pitch. However, there is still lots of work to do.”