Inter Manager Rues Absence Of Joel Obi

Published: January 04, 2013

Interviewed on Inter Channel, manager Andrea Stramaccioni commented on the Nigeria international Joel Obi, whose season has been blighted by injury.

''Today, Obi is a great regret because at the start of the season was almost always unavailable. Has played two games when he was available and played well against Neftçi, scoring a great goal, and against Catania, sacrificing himself and ranking among the best in the field, then unfortunately the relapse. With the help of Dr Combi we'll see him on the field very soon,'' said Stramaccioni.

Due to Joel Obi's physical condition, his name was conspicuously missing when coach Stephen Keshi released his 32- man provisional African Cup of Nations roster.

Meanwhile, the midfielder's manager, Renzo Contratto has told British media that his client will remain at Inter Milan despite interest from Sunderland and Everton.

He told Sky Sports: ''The player is now coming back from a serious injury and I think Inter want to count much on him also considering their need of midfielders.

"There was interest from some teams, including Sunderland, but I think the club and the coach Andrea Stramaccioni consider Joel an important player."

Photo Credit: Inter Milan