Sampdoria coach Dejan Stankovic praised his players after their 0-0 draw with Inter Milan.

Stankovic says the point was fully deserved from Monday night.

He explained, “It was a very intense game, a battle, hard-fought, I congratulate the team. We are finding some consistency.

“I am sorry that I didn't speak after Monza, but I was so sad and upset after the last-minute incident, still I regret not praising my team and our fans after that. Our situation is not easy, but we fight to the end.

“I congratulate Simone (Inzaghi), who has a really strong Inter side and I wish them all the best. We tried to cause them problems, at times we were a bit frenetic, but I understand the players feel the tension on the field I cannot get angry with them for that. With a little more calm, we might've been more effective on the counter-attack. We had our chances, Inter did too, but when you give your all, sometimes luck can turn your way.

“I believe in hard work, pride and determination, which we have in spades. Some call it a miracle, fine let it be a miracle. My only job here is to give courage to these lads, make them a team who rejoice and suffer together, who can leave the field with heads held high."