Nagatomo tipped to shine at Inter

Japan manager Alberto Zaccheroni has backed new Inter Milan recruit Yuto Nagatomo to shine at the San Siro.

Nagatomo secured a six-month loan deal to Inter from Serie A rivals Cesena on the final day of the January transfer window, a move the left-back later described as a ‘dream come true’.

Zaccheroni, who led Japan to Asian Cup glory over Australia last month, predicted Nagatomo will showcase the best of Japanese football in his time at the reigning Italian and European champions.

“I am confident he’ll do very well at Inter,” Zaccheroni said.

“He reflects Japanese football today, as he is a hard worker and dedicated to his studies as well as football.”

“Japan won the Asian Games in China with a side entirely formed of university students. It’s not a coincidence.”

“At the age of 21, a Japanese football player has technique and tactical nous, but also dedicates himself to learning and culture.”

“In Europe, however, if a lad can play football then he pulls out of his studies. We should think about this.”

Nagatomo will have plenty of opportunity to endear himself to Inter manager Leonardo in the coming weeks, with first choice left-back Cristian Chivu suspended for four matches for punching Bari’s Alessandro Rossi on Thursday.