Recoba on 2003/2004

"I've played little, too little, and it has always been because of injuries. Perhaps this is why I've learned to score quickly." Speaking from Montevideo, where he's in training with the Uruguay national team ahead of the upcoming 2006 World Cup qualifying matches, Alvaro Recoba recounted a season which has been different from all the others.

"I always had a few physical problems. It has never been anything serious, but there were always a few irritating problems," continued the Nerazzurri forward. "I think I have done my bit when I have played, but it's obviously not been enough. I don't feel I have participated as much as I wanted, I've been more unavailable than available, I've hardly ever trained with Zaccheroni... This is why I tried to take advantage of the minutes I had on the pitch; there was nothing else I could do. Like in Empoli or in the match at home to Benfica when I scored immediately..."

This season Recoba made twenty-nine appearances (for a total of 1566 minutes played), scored eleven goals (one penalty) and hit the woodwork four times. "In the end, the only thing that counted was fourth place in the championship and qualification to the Champions League preliminary round," explained the Uruguayan. "We've reached what is a minimum objective for an important club like Inter, but we needed it and we strongly wanted it. After many disappointments, including undeserved ones like the Tim Cup exit, we have reached an objective in the final part of the season and we have put together a series of positive results. This will help us build a better future. We've laid some important foundations."

In the meantime, Recoba is preparing to face Perù and Ivan Ramiro Cordoba's Colombia in the Germany 2006 qualifying round. "We still have a few chances of getting to the World Cup, but we have to win and it won't be easy," admitted Recoba, who during his stay in South America will be followed closely by Nerazzurri therapist Marco Morelli. "I have to complete my recovery and Morelli's presence here is very useful for me. I'm better now, I'm able to play, but even in Empoli I clearly wasn't in top condition. I hope the summer and the holidays brush away this season of injuries..."

[inter.it]