Inter Milan coach Claudio Ranieri has told critics not to write them out of the title race.

The Nerazzurri are 11 points behind leaders Juventus in the standings, but Ranieri is remaining optimistic for the season ahead.

"The players all have the right desire," Ranieri, who replaced Gian Piero Gasperini in September, told Radio Anch'io Sport.

"For as long as it is mathematically possible, we'll aim for the biggest prize. However, the teams up there will have to slow down a bit - otherwise it will be impossible."