Secret session for Italian giants

The Citizens played host to the managerless Serie A side before their 2-1 defeat at St Mary's Stadium, hosting a two hour training session for the full Nerazzurri squad at the The Denplan City Ground after agreeing to provide their facilities for a private session.

Officials at the EVO-STIK League Southern South & West club were delighted to record another first for the Hampshire club before a famous win in Europe for their Premier League neighbours despite having to keep it under wraps until afterwards.

In a statement ahead of their 2-0 league win at Swindon Supermarine on Saturday, officials also hailed the ground staff and volunteers for stepping in at short notice to ensure their guests were happy.

The club said: "We are delighted to report that we were able to play host to the full Inter Milan squad, prior to their Europa League game against Southampton. They held a two hour training session, led by their new interim coach - following the departure of their manager [Frank de Boer] earlier this week.

"We were asked to provide our facilities, on the basis that it would be a private session - hence we were unable to publicise the visit. We should like to thank Ray Bulpitt and Izzy for working very hard to produce a great looking pitch - which Inter were very happy with.

"Also, Darrell and Julie Gowers along with Judy M put several hours into cleaning the dressing rooms, which was hard work for sure. So, yet again - a real move forward for our club. We should all be proud!"

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