Nainggolan puts too many things ahead of football, moans Spalletti

Luciano Spalletti felt Inter made the most of Empoli fatigue, but Radja Nainggolan “can be attracted to other things” outside of football.

Keita Balde Diao’s goal proved enough at the Stadio Castellani to continue their positive streak.

“There are games that can start going the wrong way if you don’t take the right approach,” the tactician told Sky Sport Italia.

“We weren’t sharp in the first half and didn’t spark enough moves down the flanks. It was better after the break, when Empoli got tired and we were able to create problems.

“It’s a fundamental victory and I’d say a fair one too. Once again, we wasted chances and lost the ball cheaply, something we cannot afford to do, as we risk on the counter. In games like this, Empoli can analyse a good performance, but for a side like Inter, the only thing that matters is the result.”

Nainggolan was frozen out against Napoli for turning up late to training, but returned as a substitute with Empoli.

“Radja is a sensitive guy, but he can be attracted to other things and he needs to whittle them down to focus on his football.”