Inter Milan boss Roberto Mancini hailed the performance of Gary Medel after victory over Hellas Verona.
Hernanes also shone in a central role.
Mancini said: "I believe that is the best position for him, but he can also play centre-midfield. Kovacic and Shaqiri are young, so they will certainly do better in future. Shaqiri just arrived and we need patience to help him settle in properly to Serie A football.
"Medel is an extraordinary player in front of the defence. He has a heart the size of a house and wins back numerous balls. I think if we didn't have him there, we'd really struggle."