Zanetti: '2012 is Inter's year'

By Football Italia staff

Javier Zanetti hopes 2012 can be “a year of victories for Inter,” starting tonight against Parma, while he helps Mauro Zarate and Ricky Alvarez to settle.

The captain gave an interview to Inter Channel ahead of this evening’s return to Serie A action at San Siro.

“I think we have everything we need to be protagonists in all competition. We know that we’re a bit behind in Serie A, but the recent wins gave us a lot of confidence and we hope to begin the year with another success.

“We are well aware there are difficulties ahead, but so much depends on us and I think we’ve got what it takes to fight on all fronts to make this a year of victories for Inter.”

The Nerazzurri had a disastrous start to the campaign, but have climbed back up to fifth place, albeit eight points adrift of joint leaders Juventus and Milan.

“Juventus are doing very well and I think they deserve to be top of the table with Milan,” continued Zanetti.

“We have had, for many reasons, a period of difficulty and are now getting back on track. Now we hope they will experience some difficulties so we can take advantage of any slip-ups.

“Parma are a tough opponent and can cause us problems in attack, but we want to win and start 2012 on the right foot. We believe, especially as it would set us up for the derby in the best possible way.”

Not all the Argentines at Inter have settled well, as there are reports Alvarez and Zarate will be moving on.

“It was only normal that Ricky would have a few problems, as he came from a different country and League. His recent performances have been important for him and the team, so that can boost his confidence.

“Everyone knows the quality that Mauro has, so I think the birth of his daughter this week can further motivate him. He was really looking forward to this moment.”

There was bad news for Zanetti, though, as his wife Paula was carjacked in Buenos Aires on Wednesday night.

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