Chivu expects ‘similar’ Atletico Madrid test to AC Milan for troubled Inter

Cristian Chivu trusts Inter will ‘get back on our feet’ after the derby defeat and takes advice from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, but admits Atletico Madrid are similar to AC Milan.

It kicks off at the Metropolitano on Wednesday at 20.00 GMT.

The Nerazzurri have a perfect record in the Champions League so far this season, having won all four games and conceded just one goal.

However, their Serie A form is very different, falling to another big match defeat at the weekend when losing 1-0 to rivals AC Milan in the Derby della Madonnina.

“We always got back on our feet, and I expect the same after the derby,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.

“It will be an important game, just like on Sunday, against a strong opponent. It is a Champions League tie and we must continue our positive journey.”

It is particularly concerning that Inter have been so weak when dealing with counter-attacks, because that is the major strength for both Milan and tomorrow’s opponents Atletico Madrid.

“I do expect a similar approach to the one we saw on Sunday, they will have organisation, counter-attacks and quality,” confirmed Chivu.

“We must be positive, impose our style on the game, do the right preventative marking and move the ball around faster than what we saw on Sunday. We’ve got to be more clinical.”

There were question marks over goalkeeper Yann Sommer after a costly error on the Milan goal, so will he be given the gloves tomorrow or rested?

“I have to defend my players, I have 22 very talented players and they all deserve to represent Inter. Everyone can ask themselves if they will start or come off the bench.

“Lately, I read the philosophy of Mikel Arteta, who said there are those who start matches and those who end them. Having said that, the role of the goalkeeper is different, Pepo Martinez will get his opportunities and it will be his time too when he feels ready after a difficult moment.”

Martinez has not played since he was involved in a fatal car accident last month.