Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has launched a strong defence of Alessandro Bastoni, but admitted he could say goodbye.
The defender has endured a terrible couple of months, first celebrating a red card he drew against Juventus after a horror dive.
Already enemy No.1 he then picked up a red card for Italy in their World Cup qualifying decider against Bosnia and Herzegovina which contributed to their exit.
He’s already been advised to leave the country amid strong links to Barcelona, and Chivu isn’t too sure about him staying.
“I can’t control his future or what he wants to do,” the Inter coach responded.
“I only know that he’s very happy to be at Inter and part of this wonderful group.
“He’s always given 100%, that’s what matters to me; in fact, as long as he’s here, he’ll give more than 100% for us.
“Regardless of what he does, world football will always enjoy a high-quality player. I’d be happy if he stayed, but I’d be happy to stay too. These are the uncertainties in football, for a coach.”
Chivu then went on to explain the lengths Bastoni went to in order to play against Bosnia.
He said: “We’ve always put our face forward, and I’m talking specifically about Bastoni, who left Appiano on crutches and then still played for Italy just three days later.
“These players always put their face forward, but there’s little recognition in this world.”
He added: “What matters is the respect of your teammates, your work, and who you are as a human being.
“Ale is sorry for what happened but is happy with the support of his teammates in the national team and at Inter.
“He showed up on the pitch with everything he had to represent an entire country. He tried to fulfill the dream of the Italians and, despite his physical condition, he made himself available to play. And this means a lot to me, as a man of sports.
“I repeat: Bastoni spent 10 days on crutches and still took on the responsibility of playing.”
Leave a Reply