Massimiliano Allegri is pleased to receive support from Milan, welcomes back Alexandre Pato and admits he’s been won over by Lazio” data-scaytid=”5″>Lazio boss Vladimir Petkovic.
Massimiliano Allegri is pleased to receive support from Milan, welcomes back Alexandre Pato and admits he’s been won over by Lazio boss Vladimir Petkovic.
The Rossoneri step into the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening, albeit with an eight-point gap separating the teams. Click here for a match preview.
“I was pleased to hear Vice-President Adriano Galliani’s comments, but the whole club has shown its faith in the squad and in me,” said Coach Allegri.
“I will admit only seven points in the table isn’t much, but this is a new and young side, so perhaps it’ll take a bit more time. The side put in some great performances, although we must improve on set plays.”
Milan have wasted numerous scoring opportunities this season, leading journalists to ask whether Allegri would like to have the clinical Miroslav Klose in his ranks.
“I don’t miss Klose. We have players who can score many goals, even if the German is an excellent striker. I have been impressed with Petkovic. He immediately understood Italian football, is very smart and has a good squad suited to his characteristics.
“We must be wary, as once Lazio take the lead then they rarely come under much pressure. Both teams realise how important this match is.”
Christian Abbiati, Robinho and the suspended Massimo Ambrosini are out for this game, but Pato returns for his first official game of the season.
“I get the feeling Pato’s return will be different to the others, as he does not have that sense of fear now. Of course, he hasn’t played in a long time and needs a while to settle. Could Pato start? It is a possibility, but I think it’s more likely Giampaolo Pazzini will play.”
Kevin-Prince Boateng and Antonio Nocerino were heroes last season, but have somewhat lost their way recently.
“Boa has never pulled back in terms of intensity or effort. Noce did well at Parma and last year did very well on the inside of midfield. He is not ‘lost,’ but it is important and I know what he can bring to the team.”