Chivu back as Inter bid for ‘perfect match’

INTER MILAN will be boosted by the return of Cristian Chivu for their crunch Champions League clash against Liverpool.

But coach Roberto Mancini has defensive worries ahead of the return leg.

His first choice centre-half pairing of Argentine Walter Samuel and Colombian Ivan Cordoba are both out injured and Marco Materazzi is suspended while Chivu sat out Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Reggina.

But Mancini, who claimed that even an adverse result will not affect his team’s standing as one of the giants of Europe, is confident the Romanian will be fit.

“Chivu will be there but great players are those who take to the field even when they are struggling,” said Mancini.

A lot of the talk in Milan these last three weeks has been about the possibility of elimination, something that Mancini admits is a serious threat but he doesn’t think failure in Europe should deflect from Inter’s achievements. They romped to the Serie A title by 22 points last season and currently lead the table by six points.

“We’re still great even if we go out. I’m never pessimistic but it’s a possibility,” added Manicni.

“We’re starting off at a disadvantage but we need to play the perfect match, without giving Liverpool the chance to close down spaces.

“We mustn’t rush in trying to score a goal, the match can change in 15 minutes, like Manchester United in the FA Cup.”

Still, history is against Inter, who have not won Europe’s premier competition since 1965 and have not even reached the final since 1972.

The last time Inter lifted the cup they met Liverpool in the semi-finals and having lost 3-1 at Anfield they triumphed 3-0 at home before going on to beat Benfica in the final.

Asked if that match would have a bearing on this one, Mancini replied mischievously: “An omen from 43 years ago? I hope they remember our night.”

A packed San Siro can boost Inter Milan’s chances of overcoming a 2-0 first-leg deficit.

“I believe a full stadium can make the difference,” Mancini said. “If the match is going well, the crowd could be decisive.”

Mancini hinted he may play five across the midfield despite the need for goals.

“With many unavailable, it could be a possibility. To overhaul a 2-0 scoreline we will have to be perfect from every point of view,” he said.

“We must play the perfect match, trying not to give Liverpool space. I am not pessimistic, I believe it is possible to go through.”