Inter's Derby Dilemma: Thuram's Illness Adds to Injury Woes

Inter coach Cristian Chivu has disclosed fresh worries for the club leading up to tomorrow's Derby della Madonnina against AC Milan, confirming that key forward Marcus Thuram missed today's training session due to illness.

The highly anticipated match is scheduled to kick off at San Siro on Sunday at 19:45 GMT (20:45 CET).

The Nerazzurri were already contending with the absence of their captain and top scorer, Lautaro Martinez. He has been sidelined since sustaining a calf strain during the first leg of their Champions League play-off against Bodo/Glimt last month.

Thuram's Fitness Concerns for Inter

Now, Thuram's availability to start in attack for one of the season's most crucial fixtures is uncertain, a fact Chivu highlighted during his press conference this afternoon.

Chivu stated, "The lads are doing pretty well; they trained effectively following the Coppa Italia match against Como."

He elaborated on Thuram's condition: "We encountered some issues today with Marcus, who is experiencing a fever and was unable to participate in the training session. Our only hope is that he will be fully recovered and available for us tomorrow."

On a more positive note, the team welcomes back Hakan Calhanoglu. He made his first start in six weeks during Tuesday's 0-0 Coppa Italia semi-final draw against Como.

Chivu confirmed Calhanoglu's readiness, saying, "Calhanoglu is in good shape and will be available for us tomorrow. Playing an hour in Como was beneficial for him, and we will assess his role for the derby."

Additionally, Ange-Yoan Bonny, who missed the last Serie A round due to a muscular problem, returned to action as a substitute against Como.

Consequently, Francesco Pio Esposito appears to be the sole guaranteed starter in Inter's attacking lineup.