Inter president Erick Thohir has stressed the need to remain positive despite his team’s poor run of form in Serie A.

The Nerazzurri lost 1-0 at Lazio on Monday to drop to sixth place in the standings, eight points behind Napoli, who are third and hold the last Champions League qualifying spot.

Inter have won just one of their last eight league games, a 1-0 triumph over city rivals Milan on December 22.

Thohir, who replaced Massimo Moratti as Inter president back in November shortly after becoming majority shareholder of the club, said in a statement: “I have read that my disappointment over our defeat to Lazio was seen as a criticism of the team.

“It’s natural to feel disappointed when you lose a match, but that’s not the same as criticism.

“I’m as upset as anyone when we lose but we’re all working together with the same aim.

“As for any technical analysis, that’s for the coach to make.

“I reiterate that winning or losing a game will not alter our belief in this project. We will continue to work in the best interests of the team, the club and our respected fans.”

Inter, coached by Walter Mazzarri, take on Udinese at the Friuli stadium today in the last 16 of the Coppa Italia.