Inter would be stronger if they had more young players, says Zeman

Jan 20, 2013 2:20:00 PM

The Roma boss suggests that the Nerazzurri could be a more formidable side if they were prepared to put more faith in youth, as he claims to have done in the Italian capital

Zdenek Zeman has hit out at Inter's lack of commitment in developing young players as he prepares his Roma team to face Andrea Stramaccioni's side.

The Giallorossi are currently sixth in Serie A, six points behind fourth-placed Inter, ahead of the meeting at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

Speaking ahead of the game, the 65-year-old Czech coach questioned the Milan outfit's ability to produce new talent.

"Today, the nation is turning to young people," he was quoted in Gazzetta dello Sport.

"And it's better that way. Inter have many important players but I do not think that many young people. In fact they have very few. If they had had more, things would come better for them."

The Aquile come into the fixture after a 1-0 extra-time win over Fiorentina in the Coppa Italia last Wednesday, a victory which earned them a semi-final against the Nerazzurri, but Zeman is of no doubt which game against Inter matters the most.

"For me the Italian Cup these days does not count for much, I do not think," the former Pescara trainer added.

"Indeed, the balance of the season will depend on our position in the league more than the conclusion of the Italian Cup.

"We always aim high to reach those ahead of us. Inter are a top team and must be respected. I hope to see the same desire and the same concentration of the first half against Fiorentina."

Roma currently have 32 points from their 20 games in Serie A, while Inter have 38.