Pressure on Ranieri as Inter visits Marseille
MARSEILLE, France - The Associated Press
Inter Milan coach Claudio Ranieri feels the heat after seeing his team falling to a 3-0 blow at the hands of Bologna in an Italian Serie A game last week. REUTERS photo
The pressure is mounting on Inter Milan coach Claudio Ranieri to get a win in tonight’s Champions League match at Marseille.After drifting out of contention in the Italian title race and out of the Italian Cup, Inter’s thinning trophy hopes rest firmly with the Champions League. And only a positive result at Stade Velodrome will appease animosity toward Ranieri.
Inter fans protested during and after last week’s 3-0 loss to Bologna, chanting for 2010 treble-winning coach Jose Mourinho, and Marseille senses the Italian club is there for the taking.
“Inter is in trouble,” Marseille assistant coach Guy Stephan said. “I get the impression there isn’t too much unity in the team, that there isn’t a great atmosphere. But you have to be wary, as there are some top-level players at Inter.” Inter’s nosedive is in contrast to Marseille’s impressive form that was extended to 15 games.
Marseille was boosted with the news that midfielder Alou Diarra was set to resume training yesterday after picking up a toe injury last week.
Meanwhile, Uruguay striker Diego Forlan is set to make his European debut for Inter after he was ineligible for the group stage.
Inter has conceded 15 goals in the last six games, a glaring weakness that gives Marseille hope.
