Esposito and Thuram fire Inter to convincing victory over Como

Cristian Chivu was delighted with his players, praising their maturity after a season of ups and downs.

“The beginning of a season is full of highs and lows. We have always known how to react and accept that there is a lot to improve. Today we produced a good performance from every point of view.

“We put pressure on their build-up and accepted that they could cause us difficulties. We broke forward with ferocity and were clinical in front of goal. I praise my players because they gave a performance of maturity and quality.”

Esposito opened the scoring in the 12th minute, with Thuram doubling the advantage seven minutes later. Chivu was asked about the development of both forwards.

“We have a competitive squad, and we have brought young players up from the Under-23s. I thank them because they have helped us maintain a high level in training," said the Inter Milan coach.

“Thuram and Pio do not need my praise. Sometimes Marcus’s quality is questioned, but he has always been important. Pio is now an international. Nobody should be surprised. They know how important they are to our game.”

Chivu said he would only know at season’s end whether the derby defeat had proved a turning point. The break offers time to recover before another demanding run.

Como coach Cesc Fàbregas accepted that his side had made costly mistakes, allowing Inter to exploit their transitions.

“We lost balls that we normally do not lose, and they punished us on the counter-attack. My responsibility was to find a defensive balance so that we did not hurt ourselves.

“We conceded two goals because we lost two balls through one of our good players. Inter have played two Champions League finals and are physically stronger. We have to congratulate them and continue on our own path.”

Fàbregas said his tactical options had also been affected by the players available.

“Our formation depends on which players are available. I could say we should play with three centre-backs, but we do not have them. I have to choose the players who are in the best moment.

“We found a little more balance after making adjustments, but today we could talk about a thousand things. This is football. It happens and it will happen again.”