Former Lazio coach Sven Goran Eriksson believes Inter Milan's Champions League success has hurt their Scudetto defence.

The Swede, however, insists coach Jose Mourinho has the ability to guide Inter to another title triumph.

Eriksson said: "Inter are a very strong team. Earlier this season we were all convinced they would win the championship.

"They lost so many points in recent times due to the fact that Inter went a long way in the Champions League. When you get to the semifinals of the Champions League you spend so much energy in terms of both physical and mental. It is very difficult to fight for both goals.

"I know Mourinho very well. He has a very strong mentality and is a very special character. When I was with Manchester City, he coached Chelsea. He was very good and appreciated by all his players, they spoke highly of him. He also told me all about his players."