Inter Milan spent a lot of money in securing the services of Switzerland wingerXherdan Shaqiri from Bayern Munich at the start of the January transfer window. He has immediately repaid them with an impressive performance against Sampdoria in the Italian cup.
Struggling to find their form in the league, Inter can at least look forward to playing in the next round of the Coppa Italia after a 2-0 win sees them through to the next round. The two teams were unable to find the decisive breakthrough for much of the match untilXherdan Shaqiri came up with the opening goal in the 71st minute.
Icardi’s goal close to injury time confirmed the victory, while Sampdoria were reduced to just nine men by that period. Despite the obvious man advantage, Inter manager Roberto Mancini was especially happy with his new signingShaqiri.
Known as the ‘European Messi’ in some quarters,Shaqiri has been unable to produce consistent performances largely because of the lack of opportunities. Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola often putShaqiri on the bench and preferred the pairing of Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery to play on the wings.
Shaqiri’s £ 13 million move to Inter is expected to help him rediscover his football.”Shaqiri`s class and personality was clear for all to see. I`m happy that he and Podolski had such a good game.I think we can do even better though. Once the team is more compact they`ll be able to play with even more quality,” said Mancini after also witnessing another new signing – Podolski – make a positive impact.
Podolski has been brought to the club on a loan deal from Arsenal till the end of the season. Inter are undefeated since the campaign resumed after the winter break. They host Torino in the Italian Serie A this weekend.