NO WORRIES FOR FIGO
August 30, 2005
LUIS Figo may not have been on form but Inter-Milan got off to a flying start in the new Serie A season with a 3-0 trouncing of newly-promoted Treviso.
Figo, making his League debut following his transfer from Real Madrid, was far from impressive and missed an easy chance before the break.
But Inter coach Roberto Mancini is not worried because he knows Figo will deliver the goods at the right time.
Asked about Figo's lacklustre display, Mancini said: 'He's still not in the right shape to be the Figo we all know, but when he gets the ball and runs, he's always dangerous.'
Mancini saluted Figo's 'professional attitude' since he moved over to the Serie A.
'He always gives his best in training and there's no questioning his technical value,' he said.
Figo pleaded for patience from the Inter fans.
'I need to quickly adapt to the Italian philosophy. I'm doing all that I can to help the side and win what is winnable,' he said.
'Football is about the present and I am here to demonstrate my worth, no matter what my past suggests.'
Treviso, playing in the top division for the first time, rarely threatened and were hopelessly outclassed by Inter, who last won the League title in 1989 but are among the favourites for the Scudetto.
But Mancini sang praises of Brazilian striker Adriano, who scored a hat-trick.
HAT-TRICK HERO
Adriano, nicknamed 'The Emperor', broke the deadlock for Inter in the 32nd minute with a flashing drive before doubling his tally with a cool finish midway through the second half.
The 23-year-old Brazil international's trusty left foot drilled in a third goal 10 minutes from the final whistle.
'He's a player that makes the difference,' he said.
'Perhaps we weren't in top condition at the start, but in the last eight days we have played three difficult matches - this match, the Italian SuperCup and the Champions League Qualifier - so maybe that showed a bit.
'We did a lot better after the first goal and I saw some positive things.'
- Reuters.