Milan favourites for derby despite Inter's win over Neftchi, insists Stramaccioni

Oct 4, 2012 9:10:00 PM

The young Nerazzurri boss was encouraged with his team's win in the Europa League though played down his side's chances of beating the Rossoneri this weekend

Inter coach Andrea Stramaccioni has hailed his side following their win over Neftchi Baku which puts them in pole position of Group H, but still insists AC Milan are favourites for Sunday's derby.

The 2010 Champions League winners had the game wrapped up after 45 minutes on Thursday after racing to a three-goal lead.

Fielding a much-changed starting eleven, Stramaccioni was delighted with his team's ability to get the job done despite the absence of star players including Wesley Sneijder.

"We knew it would be a difficult game, but Inter played a great first half,” he was quoted by Sky Italia.

"There were only three players who started against Fiorentina, so maintaining a certain shape and character away from home means the whole group is growing together.

"Of course it is always better to have Sneijder than not, but Philippe [Coutinho] has always shown himself to be ready when called on. I will have the opportunity to alternate them depending on form.

"There were five players who are under 20 years old and these are important signals, because it means we are building a new era."

Inter now look to their weekend Serie A clash with Milan, a game that Stramaccioni does not believe his side are favourites to win because of the Rossoneri's Champions League 3-2 success over Russian side Zenit.

“It was important to win and be top of the group. Now we can think about the derby,” he continued.

“The thing I like most about this team is the fact they always seem solid and yet dangerous. Are we favourites in the derby? No, I think Milan are after their victory over Zenit in St Petersburg."

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