Ranocchia: Cassano better than Cavani

Inter Milan centre-back Andrea Ranocchia believes Antonio Cassano is a better player than Napoli’s Edinson Cavani.

Only two points separate third-placed Inter and second-placed Napoli in the Serie A standings and the two sides go head to head at San Siro on Sunday.

Striker Cassano is set to return from a two-game ban for insulting a referee and Ranocchia is certain the former Real Madrid man can make the difference.

“Who would I choose between Cavani and Cassano? Cassano, of course. We have really missed him, he is a phenomenon,” the defender told Corriere dello Sport.

“There are not many around with his technique and vision. He can invent something out of nothing. I know what he has achieved in his career, and I can say he is capable of doing even better.”

Ranocchia said he was determined to help his side regain their top form and win the Serie A title this season.

“We came off a string of victories and there was a dip in our form. Some thought we relaxed after the win (against Juventus), but that wasn’t the case. It’s normal to regret missing some opportunities,” he said.

“I would not be content with a Champions League spot, as I want to win the Scudetto. My mentality is to always win and finish ahead of everyone. Now that we’re up there, it is only right that we target the title.”