Concerns For Inter Going to The Old Trafford

These last few weeks have been less than convincing for Inter as a team. A horrendous show at the San Siro against the Red Devils, barely scraping through with a draw against Roma, and a thrashing at the hands of one Antonio Cassano from Sampdoria have all made the squad look mediocre at best.

So, going forward, Inter have to really pull up their socks unless they want to be beaten 'black and blue'. The key concerns for Inter as they head to Manchester United are:

1) Leaky Defense:

This is the main concern for Inter. In their last two games, the Milanese side have conceded six goals! This is concerning because against a speedy Manchester side, they'll have no chance if they're this porous.

Rivas is a disgrace for an Italian side, the kind that takes pride in defensive tenacity. However, Inter has few replacements. Burdisso gets cold feet in big games. Fielding Matrix is like playing with a man down, since he is bound to get himself sent off.

With Walter Samuel unavailable, the best options to go with would be Cordoba and Chivu, though they don't really inspire a lot of confidence. Santon and Maicon should complete the lineup with the two center backs.

The only good news is that Julio Ceasar has been in sublime form and a huge presence between the sticks.

2) Lack of Creativity:

The midfield of Inter is a powerhouse, but it's also another area that leaves much to be desired. There is no spark of creativity in there.

Cambiasso and Zanetti should provide cover to the defense. But I might field Luis Jimenez and/or Luis Figo in place of Muntari and/or Stankovic to provide that extra spark in the middle of the park. Figo in particular should be called on for the big game, given his immense Champions League experience.

3) Attacking Doldrums:

Inter are finding it difficult to score goals, and the game against Sampdoria provided ample proof of that.

With Zlatan Ibrahimovic looking to gain fitness, the "Special One" will undoubtedly start with the "Sublime Swede," but I believe that Balotelli and Adriano should get a start, with Ibrahimovic coming on as an early second half substitute so that he can torment the defenders.

Balotelli, with his youth, has shown no fear, and a goal at the Theatre of Dreams will do immense good for his confidence.

All that said, I believe that Manchester will be favorites going into this tie, given their confidence going into the game. But at the same time, I wouldn't be surprised if Inter snagged a historic win at the Old Trafford to avenge their quarterfinal defeat at the hands of the Red Devils ten years ago.

Forza Ragazzi!