Cristian Chivu of Inter Milan backs criticised Alessandro Bastoni following red card in Italy match

Bastoni faced criticism from Italian press and rival supporters since Inters Valentines Day victory against Juventus, where he was blamed for simulating to cause Pierre Kalulus dismissal and then rejoicing over it.

The break for international duty failed to reduce the scrutiny. His impulsive challenge as the last defender during the opening period reduced Italy to ten players, leading to their penalty shootout defeat in the World Cup qualifier against Bosnia.

In football the key is respecting your colleagues. It is about your effort and your character as an individual Chivu remarked to journalists before Sundays fixture at home versus AS Roma.

I am certain he feels regret over the incident yet he appreciates the backing from his international squad mates and those at the team.

He faced up to the situation. In tough times he came forward with his abilities to stand for his nation and pursue the aspiration shared by all Italians.

Bastoni had to overcome the adverse publicity and also sat out Inters latest fixture due to an injury prior to reporting for national team duties.

Even with the challenges and his fitness issues then he volunteered himself and that holds great value for me Chivu added.

I know the impact of being sidelined on crutches for ten days before assuming duty in a crucial encounter.

Chivu countered queries on the media frenzy after the Juventus clash by turning it back on the journalists regarding perceived biases against Inter.

I have not noticed similar outcry afterwards but when it involves Inter or claims of favoritism towards us it turns into widespread condemnation Chivu stated.

Yet when incidents disadvantage Inter nobody comments. That is a query for you to address as you ought to explain it.

Commendation rather than reproach

Five Inter players featured in Italys defeat with the 20 year old striker Pio Esposito failing on the initial penalty in the shootout.

What concerned me and I enquired when I met him was if he volunteered for that spot kick Chivu noted.

He confirmed he did and that suffices for me.

At his age to accept such accountability aware of the games significance is what counts to me. Spot kicks get missed and he will squander plenty more in his career. The vital part is his bravery to volunteer.

Inter lead the league by six points over AC Milan who face third placed Napoli away on Monday.