Zanetti supports Cuper

INTERNAZIONALE captain Javier Zanetti has backed under-fire coach Hector Cuper and insists his compatriot is performing a sterling job at Giuseppe Meazza.

Cuper's position at the Inter helm has once more come under scrutiny following the club's exit from the Champions League at the hands of city rivals Milan.

The Argentine tactician remains defiant and has vowed not to quit despite speculation regarding his future, with Lazio's Roberto Mancini repeatedly linked as his replacement.

But Cuper has found an ally in the guise of his skipper Zanetti, who believes his fellow Argentine has the ability to bring success to the Nerazzurri.

"With Cuper, we have lived two years at the top," said Zanetti. "He's a big coach who is doing a very good job.

"We have the will, enthusiasm and faith to continue together and look for success next year. The club have made a big effort to build this group. It has to be understood that in a certain moment, it's necessary to give more."

Zanetti now admits Inter's goal is to secure second spot in Serie A to ensure automatic qualification for the Champions League group stages.

He added: "The disappointment of not having reached the Champions League final will become anger and will to win the last two championship matches.

"Finishing in second place means putting down a base for a successful season next year, without the Champions League preliminaries."

Inter are currently three points clear of Milan in the race for second and visit Modena this weekend.