Inter Milan boss Conte: I'm no bootlicker

Antonio Conte has shrugged off the criticism of taking the Inter Milan job.

The former Juventus took some flak for the move.

But before victory over Torino, he said: I think that I am a fair and honest person in every area. I believe in hard work, the spirit of sacrifice and effort. I don't change my nature, I am not a bootlicker, I don't try to woo people by playing sad music.

I've come as far as I have in my career because of my effort and I don't have anyone to thank other than my parents. I am a free spirit."

Conte added: My history does show that I don't start new experiences as the favourite. I inherited a Bari side that was in the drop zone and brought it to Serie A, where I also took Siena straight after their relegation.

Juve, Chelsea and the Italy national team were all coming off delicate moments when I arrived, but I can assure you that I rejected clubs because I didn't feel it was the right time."