Gasperini unfazed by Inter challenge

05 July 2011 16:30

Incoming Inter Milan coach Gian Piero Gasperini said on Tuesday he was looking forward to "an important season" with the club but was not daunted by the prestige of his new role.

"I don't know if I give the impression that I'm worried, but I'm not," he said during a press conference at Inter's training complex outside Milan here.

"I'm looking forward to starting work."

Gasperini, formerly coach of Genoa, was named as Inter's new coach two weeks ago after it became apparent that his Brazilian predecessor Leonardo wished to join Paris Saint-Germain as sporting director.

The 53-year-old joined Genoa in 2006 and was sacked in December 2010.

"Pre-season starts on Sunday, but we've been ready for 10 days and with this team we have the desire to achieve an important season," he added.

"Here, what counts is winning."

Inter's pre-season preparations will be disrupted by the fact that several of their South American players are currently on international duty at the Copa America in Argentina.

The 2010 European champions are also yet to make any significant moves in the summer transfer window.

"If the club buy new players, they'll obviously strengthen the team," said Gasperini.

"The core of the team is already very competitive, and we still have time and space to improve."

Source: AFP