Gasperini encouraged by Alvarez impact

Inter coach Gian Piero Gasperini has singled out new signing Ricardo Alvarez as one of the outstanding players in pre-season so far.

Alvarez, who was also a target of Arsenal this summer, joined Inter earlier this month from Velez Sarsfield.

The Argentinian winger has looked impressive in his team’s friendly games, scoring goals while also providing plenty of assists.

“He is a very talented player,” said Gasperini. “I think with him Inter has made an important signing.

“His quality is instantly evident.”

Gasperini, who replaced Leonardo at the helm of Inter this month, is delighted with the work carried out by his men so far.

“We are starting to find our reference on the pitch,” he said. “This is a positive sign for the future.

“The team has shown a lot of effort.

“And it wasn’t easy to face the first week considering the work and all the attention that was placed on us.”