Rafael Benítez calls for Inter focus ahead of Twente trip

Inter Milan manager Rafael Benítez believes his side must demonstrate the same intensity as last season if they are to replicate their Champions League success again this year.

The Serie A side kick off their European title defence in Holland against Dutch champions FC Twente tonight and Benítez, 50, says his side must approach the encounter with the same focused mentality that helped them to a record-breaking treble under Jose Mourinho in the last campaign.

“To retain the Champions League we need to show the same intensity and mentality that we did in the previous edition,” said Benítez, who took over at the San Siro this summer.

“Every season is different, last season this team struggled in the group stages, we’re aware of that and that’s why we want to do well starting (Tuesday) night.

“To think that we’ve already qualified for the knock-out stages would be a huge mistake, we must show humility and courage.

“No-one gives out presents in the Champions League, you have to fight in every match, thinking about one game at a time.”

Inter recorded their first victory of the new Serie A season last weekend after Samuel Eto’o scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Udinese at the San Siro after only being able to manage a goalless draw at Bologna on the opening day.

“Every coach wants more time, it’s not possible to change everything but the team has the quality to change something while maintaining the same system,” added Benítez.

“After a month and a half of hard work you can start to see some progress, improvements, but I want to see more.”