Inter coach Roberto Mancini has warned his players they cannot afford to relax despite holding a seven-point cushion over Roma at the top of Serie A.
The champions beat Siena 3-2 on Sunday to record their 14th win of the season and maintain their unbeaten run.
"We cannot be over-confident and lower our guard even if our current situation is very good," said Mancini.
Despite being hit by several injury problems since the start of the campaign, the Nerazzurri have the best strike force as well as the most solid defence in the campaign.
"I am really happy because things are going well for us," admitted Mancini. "But there is still a long way to go, there are many games left to play."
Both Roma and Inter will be involved in the Champions League next month. Inter take on Liverpool in the last 16 while Roma meet nine-time European champions Real Madrid.
Third-placed Juventus, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Catania on Saturday, are not involved in continental competition this year and Mancini believes this could be a big advantage for the Turin giants.
"From February onwards, the tournament will get more difficult for Roma and for us, we must prepare for that," he said.
"It's true that Juve are in a difficult position because they are 10 points behind us but let's not forget they will not play in Europe."
Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has not ruled out his team's chances of winning the Scudetto but admits Inter are a class above the rest.
The Giallorossi won 2-1 at Atalanta on Sunday.
"It's clear that it's going to be very hard to catch Inter," he said. "We will not give up but we must applaud what others do. In order to reach Inter's level, we would need at least two or three top players."
Source: Sporting Life
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