VERONA – "This was a huge win because Verona were right behind us in the race for the European spots. Now we have to keep Parma at arm’s reach." That was Jonathan’s first reaction as the left the pitch after scoring in Inter’s victory over Verona tonight.

"We’re happy with our form at the moment. Tomorrow I’ll be hoping Fiorentina don’t win," he grinned. "I liked the way we played tonight and we deserve this win because we’ve been working really well. Hopefully we can keep going like this till the end. 

The right-back continued: "Mazzarri told us to keep knuckling down and the bad luck we were having would pass. That’s what happened. Now we must push on without looking at the table and try to climb as high as we can.

"An Italy call-up? I don’t think that’s likely now, it’s too late to force my way into the World Cup squad and I’d have bureaucratic problems to resolve first anyway. I’m keeping my feet on the ground but if Prandelli were to call me, I’d be happy to go."