The midfielder was the hero of the hour - curling home on the hour-mark from a chance he created almost entirely himself - but he refused to claim all the credit, instead praising a resolute team effort for the three points.
The Belgian believes the match was the sort of contest that the side would not have won last season.
“We fashioned a few chances but the main thing is we won," Nainggolan said. "We showed great character.
"Milan were set up really well but apart from the penalty we defended well. We can be happy today. We weren't winning games like this last year.”
What's changed since last year?
“There were times when we played nice football but wouldn't win the match. Wins like today's – when you get there by playing with resolve – are good too. There's only target in our minds and we're on the right path. We just need to keep believing and keep going as we are.”
After scoring in the derby you got another one today. You're becoming a real fan idol...
“I just do my job. Scoring is not important to me but if it happens then so much the better. Winning is what matters and if I see the whole team fighting hard like today it's even more satisfying.”
How do you like playing in a more advanced role?
“I'm trying to do my best. It's not an easy position – you really need to put in a hard shift. I'm not your typical playmaker No.10 but I'm giving it my best. The main thing is we win as a team.”
You go to Turin to face Juventus on Saturday. Do you have a message for them?
“No, we're just focused on ourselves. We're going to have to fight really hard for it and we'll see how it all pans out.”
How will it end?
“We play to win.”
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