Hard Graft The Key For Handanovic

Goalkeeper Samir Handanovic insists hard work will be the key to the Inter’s revival under new coach Antonio Conte. Conte is now back in work after a year out following his Chelsea exit and replaces Luciano Spalletti in the San Siro dugout, with a remit of trying to push on from last season’s fourth-place finish.

The squad has now returned from their various summer exploits and are being put through their paces in pre-season ahead of a campaign of domestic and Champions League football. Handanovic admits that training has been as expected with the Italian tactician at the helm.

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“Pre-season is advancing with plenty of hard work and effort,” he told the club’s official website. “The coach didn’t surprise me because we know how he works and what he’s won, therefore, we knew what to expect. We’re working hard and the players are motivated. This is what counts.”

And the former Slovenia international shot-stopper feels that putting in the hard yards now will help the players gel as the season unfolds. “There are great foundations in place and we must not set ourselves any limits,” he added. “We must work hard and be willing to sacrifice. I think that showing a spirit of sacrifice must be our priority. We must become a team.”