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Now that Inter Milan midfielder Radja Nainggolan has apparently returned to the good graces of coach Luciano Spalletti and has made an impact on the field, the Belgian has also gone out of his way to acknowledge is previous behavior.
Nainggolan was recently suspended for two matches after showing up to a training session late – for the fourth time since joining the club.
Nainggolan’s issues started after he missed the first two matches of the season then later was injured and made just two appearances in six matches.
In an interview with Sky Italia, Nainggolan admitted his behavior was unacceptable and that he is on a path to make things right with the Nerazzurri and Interisti.
“I am trying to give my best. The season started a bit badly, as I was never quite at 100 percent,” Nainggolan said. “Then there were some problems I had that were nothing to do with football, but we have decided to set out a precise path together with the club.
“We made a pact and are working together. The details will remain in the locker room. I know that I made a few mistakes and did not put in performances that were up to my standards.”
@OfficialRadja
— Inter (@Inter) February 10, 2019
@Inter_TV
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This wasn’t the first issue for Nainggolan who posted a video of him swearing, drinking and smoking on social media when he was AS Roma.
“At the age of 30, I had to change a few things and sort some stuff out, above all on a personal level. By finding that calm off the field, I can also work with a clear head,” Nainggolan said. “Throughout my career, I’ve never had a problem with this, but seeing as I started to get a few fitness worries, I started asking myself some questions. At this moment, the work I am doing thanks also to the staff allowed me to find myself again.”
His recent fitness was on display over the last weekend when he fed Lautaro Martinez for a game-winning goal at Parma. The win gave Inter its first win of 2019.
But, his fitness and, more importantly, his attitude will be key as Inter continue to track a top four finish in Serie A and make a run at the Europa League – which begins this week in Vienna.
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