Martinez fuelling Inter’s ambitions at home and abroad

AFP, Milan :
Lautaro Martinez has had an explosive start to the season, powering Inter Milan’s league title ambitions and European hopes under new coach Antonio Conte.
The 22-year-old – known as ‘El Toro’ (The Bull) – joined the 18-time Serie A champions last season from Racing Club, scoring nine goals as Inter finished fourth in Serie A under former coach Luciano Spalletti.
The Argentina international has flourished this campaign under former Italy and Juventus manager Conte, with 13 goals in 20 appearances that have made him a fan favourite after fellow Argentine Mauro Icardi’s loan move to Paris Saint-Germain.
Inter are two points ahead of fierce rivals Juventus as they look to prevent the Turin giants from winning a ninth consecutive title.
“The Nerazzurri (Inter) striker is having an incredible season, he is a great player,” said Juve coach Maurizio Sarri.
Inter host already-qualified Barcelona in the San Siro on Tuesday knowing a win will seal their ticket to the last 16 of the Champions League. It was a brace from Martinez and a Romelu Lukaku goal that kept Inter in the Group F chase with a 3-1 win at Slavia Prague last time out.