Romelu Lukaku's return to form has given Inter Milan a new weapon ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final clash with AC Milan.
Lukaku has gently worked his way back to his best after missing much of the season due to injury and a shattered reputation due to a catastrophic World Cup.
In his previous six games, the Belgium striker has five goals and three assists, and his double in Saturday's 4-2 win over Sassuolo emphasized his newfound confidence.
Lukaku celebrated his 30th birthday at the San Siro by starting and finishing the scoring, turning and lashing home the opener from the edge of the box shortly before halftime and smashing in his eighth division goal of the season just before the end.
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A striker in such form could expect to start such a big game on Tuesday as Inter defends a 2-0 first-leg lead in a bid to reach their first league final since Jose Mourinho won it 13 years ago.
However, veteran Edin Dzeko is expected to pair Lautaro Martinez up front for the second of two crucial derbies with Milan, with Lukaku poised to come on as an impact replacement.
"Of course, every player wants to start, but the head coach has to make his choices for the team," Lukaku explained.
"As I have always said, the most significant issue is Inter, and that's why I give my all for the team."
Inter CEO Beppe Marotta indicated on Saturday that loanee Romelu Lukaku could stay at Inter next season. However, his future remains uncertain, with home club Chelsea still waiting to name a new manager.
What is certain is that the San Siro will once again be a riot of colour and noise as two of Italy's standard bearers reprise their days as European elite.
Inter fans have reason to be optimistic about their team's chances, given they hold a comfortable lead from the first leg and are in top form.
