Inter must be ruthless with crunch ties approaching

Inter Milan's European and domestic ambitions face a big week with the visits of both Arsenal and Napoli, as the Italian champions try to banish worrying signs of frailty.

Simone Inzaghi's team are level on seven points with Arsenal in the revamped Champions League and sit handily within the top-eight bracket, which offers direct qualification to the last 16.

On the face of it, Inter are in good form ahead of the Nov 6 clash against the Gunners with seven wins in an unbeaten run of eight in all competitions since their only defeat of the season, in September's Milan derby.

But the impressive results hide an indecisive streak which has characterised their performances this term and left them trailing surprise Serie A leaders Napoli.

Inter conceded just 22 goals in Serie A last season as they crushed the domestic competition and Inzaghi's side were heavy favourites to retain the Scudetto after keeping hold of star players and adding to an already strong squad.