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Chivu emotional about Romania return
Feb 21, 2013 12:45:00 PM
The Inter defender faces Romanian opposition for the first time, but says he is focused on progressing to the last 16 with the Nerazzurri on Thursday
Inter's Cristian Chivu says he is looking forward to the "special" encounter, when his side face CFR Cluj in the Europa League last-32 second leg.The 32-year-old is one of his country's most famous sportsman, and he admits returning to play in his homeland will be an emotional occasion for him.
“It’s my first game against a Romanian side, so I am a little emotional. This is a special game for me," Chivu told reporters.
Inter take a 2-0 lead into the game but Chivu is adamant his side will not take their opponents lightly.
"It is an important match and obviously our objective is to qualify, though we certainly won’t say that after winning the first leg 2-0 the tie is all over," he continued.
"Cluj are a good side, which was clear in the Champions League, so we are not underestimating them."
There have been question marks over Chivu's fitness, and he admits he will not know whether he will be able to face the Romanian's until the last minute.
He added: “I am ready to play, but only after today’s training session will we know if I’m 100 per cent fit."
With the Milan derby looming on Sunday, Chivu spoke about the importance of both games, and which one he would rather win.
Chivu said: “Would I prefer to qualify for the next round of the Europa League or win the derby against Milan? I’d prefer both!”
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