Lukaku credits Conte for 'changing me as a player' after his Man Utd nightmare

Romelu Lukaku has credited Antonio Conte for 'changing' him as a player as he penned an emotional farewell to the Italian boss following his departure from Inter Milan.

The 51-year-old spent two years in charge at Inter and guided them to their first Serie A title in 11 years this season, ending Juventus' dominance in Italy.

Despite their successful season Conte decided to walk away from Inter on Wednesday after being told by club president Steven Zhang that he would need cut their wage bill by 20 per cent and generate £86.5million in player sales in the summer due to their serious financial problems.

Lukaku was bought to Inter by Conte in a huge £74m deal in 2019, bringing an end to his nightmare spell at Manchester United.

The Belgian has thrived under Conte, scoring 64 times in 95 appearances for Inter, and has thanked him for helping turn his career around in a heartfelt message to his former boss.

'[In] 2014 we spoke for the first time and we have had a bond ever since,' Lukaku wrote on his Instagram page.

'We had many moments to work together but only god knows why it never happened earlier.

'You came at the right time and basically changed me as a player and made me even stronger mentally and more importantly we won together!

'Winning is and it's all that matters to you and I'm glad that i have had you as a coach.

'I will keep your principles for the rest of my career ( physical preparation, mental and just the drive to win...) it was a pleasure to play for you!

'Thank you for all what you did. I owe you a lot.. @antonioconte.'

Former Chelsea captain John Terry, who won the Premier League with Conte in 2016-17, replied to Lukaku's post, writing: 'I loved him mate. Great manager and a great man.'

Inter defender Achraf Hakimi also thanked Conte in a post on social media, adding: 'Thank you mister for this year together and for everything you have taught me!

'I wish you and your Staff the best in the future.'