Inter Milan legend Giuseppe Bergomi believes Lukas Podolski will come good this season for the Serie A side, despite struggling since his move from Arsenal.
The German forward made the move to the San Siro in January on a six month loan deal but he is yet to make an impact, failing to score in eight league games.
The former Bayern Munich forward has been hit with much criticism from Italian and English press in recent weeks over his lack of form, but Bergomi believes he can still turn his troubles around and become a success.
“In Milan, it is in the psyche of the supporters not to hesitate to criticise a player,” he told Kicker. “They immediately expect more from such an experienced player.
“If Lukas shows a bit more character and heart in the next games, the Inter fans will reward it with applause. I’m sure he has what it takes to become crucial at Inter for the remainder of the season.
“In the 1-0 defeat to Fiorentina on Sunday, Podolski played in a 4-3-1-2 as a second striker and this is not his ideal position. The coach then turned around after 30 minutes and pulled him to the left.
“Although he didn’t have a good game, he’s not the only one there. The midfield and defence were poor. He is at a team still developing after a change in coach and in players.”