Inter's Adriano blames alcohol for form decline

MILAN, July 21 (Reuters) Inter Milan striker Adriano has blamed alcohol for his poor form last season but has vowed to repay club president Massimo Moratti for his faith.

Although Inter ran away with Serie A, the 25-year-old Brazilian had a wretched season which included a number of niggling injuries.

''After the death of my father and the break up with Daniela (his girlfriend), I took refuge in alcohol,'' Adriano told today's Gazzetta dello Sport.

''I must say thank you to the president. It is beautiful to know that he counts on me.'' Adriano, who has lost his place in the Brazil side, will have a tough job regaining his starting spot at Inter with new signing David Suazo increasing the club's array of attacking talent.

REUTERS BJR HT1542