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Mancini affirms Icardi faith after Udinese double

Mancini affirms Icardi faith after Udinese double

By REUTERS

Inter Milan's coach Roberto Mancini looks on during their soccer match against Napoli on November 30, 2015. Photo: Reuters

MILAN: Coach Roberto Mancini has insisted that he never doubted his captain Mauro Icardi after the striker scored two goals in Inter Milan’s 4-0 victory at Udinese in Serie A on Saturday. Icardi has been in and out of the Inter team so far this season, and was hauled off at half time during the 2-1 defeat by Napoli last weekend. His indifferent start to the season has prompted speculation of a rift with Mancini, while Icardi has also been linked with a move away from the San Siro. 'He put in a great performance,' Mancini told Mediaset Premium. 'I was never worried about him. He has scored six goals so far which is a good return. (Stevan) Jovetic also had a great game today as their understanding with one another is growing.' Icardi opened the scoring in the first half before adding Inter's third in the second period after a Jovetic effort had given the visitors control of the fixture. Marcelo Brozovic added a fourth late on as Inter stormed to their 11th victory of the season. Inter’s triumph over Udinese extends their lead at the topof Serie A to four points, although Napoli will reduce the advantage to just one if they beat Roma at home on Sunday.