Kalinic delighted at contribution to the win

The Croatian striker, making a rare start for the team, ensured the Giallorossi went into half-time at the Sardegna Arena with a lead thanks to two close-range finishes - and second half goals from Justin Kluivert and Aleksandar Kolarov were enough to clinch the three points.

“We all put in a great performance, we showed real desire," Kalinic said.

"It’s never easy to come here. We want to keep going like this and win more games.”

After all the controversy about the disallowed goal last time you faced Cagliari, you got your revenge…

“I always try to help out the team – we are 11, it’s not about individuals. Today we created a lot of chances, I scored a brace and I’m pleased. We want to keep going like this but the main thing is we got the three points."

It’s not easy to play so little. Would you like to play alongside Dzeko as well?

“At Atletico Madrid I didn’t play much either, in 18 months I’ve probably started six or seven games. I’m always ready to do what the coach wants, to give what I can for the team.”

You played a smart game, physically as well you coped well.

“I feel good, I’ve been training well, the coach prepared us well for the game. I like to fight for the long balls but we all played well.”

You made life really difficult for their defence from the off.

“It’s always difficult to play here. We knew that going in and we were well prepared for the game, and we gave 100% from the first minute to make sure we could win the game.”