Jose Mourinho claims Romelu Lukaku was still developing when he played for Manchester United as he identifies what went wrong for him in England.
Mourinho coached Lukaku during his Chelsea reign before snapping him up while in charge at Old Trafford.
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The Belgium forward, though, lasted just two seasons in Manchester having scored a respectable 42 goals in 96 matches across all competitions.
He then moved to Inter Milan where he has enjoyed great success, scoring goals at a brilliant rate - bagging an impressive 24 Serie A goals last season.
Mourinho has shared his thoughts on Lukaku's development over the years and also believes the European Championship is the perfect stage for him to confirm his status as one of the best strikers in world football.
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Speaking to The Times, he said: "I think it's a great moment for him to say to the world: 'I'm here and I'm one the best strikers.'
"These two years at Inter Milan have given him the stature and the self-confidence that he didn't have before.
"At Chelsea, he was still a kid. At Manchester United, he was still developing. At Inter he became the top man. He became loved - a big love from the supporters, love from teammates, great relations with the coach.
"He's a big guy, physically so strong, but there is also a kid inside who needs that love, needs that support, needs to feel important."
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But the 28-year-old insists he is NOT leaving the San Siro club this summer amid rumours linking him with a return to Chelsea.
Asked about his future, he said: "Yes, I am staying."
Speaking before his side appointed Simone Inzaghi, he revealed: "I feel good at Inter. I've already had contact with the man who normally becomes our new manager.
"Maybe I shouldn't say that yet... but it was a very positive conversation. There's also the challenge of doing it again [winning the league]."
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Jose Mourinho, Chelsea, Football, Manchester United, Romelu Lukaku, Inter Milan