Rafael Benitez: 'Swiss trio important to Napoli'

Napoli coach Rafael Benitez has heaped praise on his trio of Swiss midfielders and insists that they remain important to his plans at the San Paolo Stadium this season.

The Azzurri have three Swiss midfielders on their books, with Gokhan Inler and Valon Behrami joined by a more attack-minded Blerim Dzemaili.

He told Blick: "All three are very important to Napoli. They all give the team a balance, robustness and defensive cover.

"The Swiss national team coach Ottmar Hitzfeld is doing a great job with them. They return to Napoli very well prepared in a tactical point of view."

Benitez has made a strong start to life in Serie A, with Napoli scoring seven goals in back-to-back victories over Bologna and Chievo.