Massimiliano Allegri warns Milan not to let the momentum slip against Catania, even though they are distracted by Antonio Cassano's surgery.
Massimiliano Allegri warns Milan not to let the momentum slip against Catania, even though they are distracted by Antonio Cassano's surgery.
The Rossoneri are on a roll of four consecutive Serie A victories, but they were held to a 1-1 draw by BATE Borisov midweek and saw Cassano suffer a mini-stroke on the plane back from the Roma game.
“The important thing is that the operation went well and the medics say there is real confidence he can return in four to six months,” noted the Coach after Friday's surgery to plug a small hole in Cassano's heart.
“We hope to have him back as soon as possible. He was in my view having the best season of his career.”
Kevin-Prince Boateng and Antonio Nocerino are suspended for Sunday's game with Catania, joining the injured Alexandre Pato, Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso and Philippe Mexes.
“It is going to be a very difficult game, as Catania are in excellent form. A team that picks up points against almost all the top clubs has to be respected.
“Over the past month we have been able to qualify for the Champions League knockouts and climb back up the Serie A table. Tomorrow is the last push before the break for international duty.
“The most important thing is understanding just how difficult this match is,” continued Allegri. “What counts is the victory and to achieve it we need everyone to work hard against a side that is very dangerous on the counter.
“We are a great team, but have to win against BATE Borisov, which on Tuesday we didn't do. Milan must boost their self-belief.”
Allegri hinted he could use Urby Emanuelson as a trequartista behind Robinho and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.