Nagatomo targets title challenge

Inter Milan defender Yuto Nagatomo is adamant his side can mount a title challenge in Serie A this season.

Andrea Stramaccioni’s men sit fourth in Italy, four points behind leaders Juventus, and the Japanese full-back insists the title is within reach.

“It’s a good time, things are going well and I’m happy,” the 26-year-old told Tuttosport.

“We are here to win the Scudetto, the whole team is focused on this goal.”

The 2010 Champions League winners recently recorded a 1-0 derby victory over rivals Milan, in a match which saw Antonio Cassano come up against his old side.

Nagatomo revealed he had an excellent rapport with the Italy international, who has been teasing him for his first-half red card.

“I still do not understand why the referee (sent me off). I struggle to understand the decision, but I’m used to respecting the decisions of the referee,” the defender said.

“Cassano teased me about that card. Antonio is my best friend at Inter, I enjoy playing with him.”

Inter will resume their Serie A campaign when they welcome Catania to the San Siro on October 21.