Leonardo remains buoyant despite losses

Embattled Inter coach Leonardo has insisted Inter can still shake up the Serie A and make an impact in the Coppa Italia.

Inter were handed an embarrassing defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals by Schalke 7-3 on aggregate, and also lost ground on their Serie A tilt.

But the Brazilian remains adamant Inter can still challenge for the domestic double.

“We can still say our bit in the League and in the Coppa Italia,” he said.

“For me, nothing has changed. I arrived in January to get to important objectives and I am here as if it were my first day.”

“We are constantly looking for a result and, like all trainers, I have to find it.”

“I am thinking about the remaining six games of the season in Serie A and the Coppa Italia.”

Leonardo enjoyed a bright start to his reign as Inter boss but a clutch of losses, including the 3-0 derby loss to bitter rivals Milan, have sent the reigning Italian and European champions in a downward spiral.

“It’s true that, in recent weeks, opinions have changed. But I am not doing a job to avoid criticism or to get praise. The criticism hasn’t made me change my mind. It helps on many occasions.”

“It’s a paradox, but at times criticism gives you freedom in your decision-making.”

“This is not the moment to give opinions on my future. Instead we need to concentrate in order to still do something important this season.”