Relief for Ranieri as Inter break home hoodoo

Claudio Ranieri was a relieved man after Inter Milan defeated Chievo 1-0 to finally record their first home win of the season.

Ranieri replaced sacked coach Gian Piero Gasperini in September, charged with leading the recovery from Inter’s dire start to the season.

They have since managed to beat Bologna away from home and recorded two victories on the road in the Champions League.

But a win in front of their own fans still eluded Inter, until Thiago Motta’s 34th-minute strike sealed all three points against Chievo on Sunday.

“We can be sharper, but the important thing was that we ended the San Siro taboo,” Ranieri said.

“It was crucial we beat a Chievo side that put many of the top teams under pressure, as they play well and work hard.”

“I am happy, as we worked hard too, despite the fact we played in the Champions League on Tuesday, and looked for the second goal.”

“When you’re facing Chievo you either score early on or it becomes an uphill struggle, because they close up well and go on the counter-attack.”

Inter remain a lowly 16th in the Serie A table, three points above the relegation zone.

They face fellow strugglers Atalanta on Wednesday, with Ranieri hopeful their recent improvement continues.

“We are trying to get better with every game, both tactically and physically, even if it’s not easy when playing every three days,” he said.

“Now we have to focus on Atalanta, because they are in good shape.”