Interim Inter Milan coach Stefano Vecchi says pressure is on against Southampton
Wednesday 2 November 2016 21:11, UK
Stefano Vecchi says he is only thinking about Thursday's Europa League clash with Southampton after being named interim Inter Milan coach.
Youth team coach Vecchi took charge on Tuesday following the sacking of Frank de Boer, leaving him with just two days to prepare for the trip to St Mary's.
And he takes charge of a team who are out of form in Serie A, and currently lie 12th after losing four of their last five.
They beat Southampton 1-0 in the reverse fixture a fortnight ago but lost their previous two Group games and are currently bottom of Group K.
"I am sorry for Frank de Boer, for solidarity with a colleague," said Vecchi in his pre-match press conference.
"The relationship between the first team and the youth team was good. Unfortunately, these things happen in football.
"I've worked with some of these players before, but clearly to prepare for a Europa League game puts the pressure on."
Vecchi, 45, has been mentioned as a candidate to take charge on a full-time basis but he is determined not to look too far ahead.
"I do not know what will happen," he said when asked about his future prospects. I am the coach of Inter and thank the sporting director Piero Ausilio for the opportunity. What happens next is not important.
"What is important is the game tomorrow night, without looking too far ahead. We often talk about the future but we have to live today, and tomorrow you can decide what is next."
Defender Andrea Ranocchia says the players need to respond to De Boer's sacking with an improved performance.
"This time is not easy but it is a great opportunity to show that we are still alive," he said. "The excuses are over, now there needs to be a reaction from the players and the whole club."
