Inzaghi: ‘No Milan scapegoat’

Pippo Inzaghi asked fans and media not to “seek a scapegoat” ahead of Milan’s tricky trip to Cesena.

It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.

Pippo Inzaghi asked fans and media not to “seek a scapegoat” ahead of Milan’s tricky trip to Cesena.

It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.

“Games away to newly-promoted sides are always difficult, but we are Milan and we want the victory,” said the Coach in his Press conference.

The defence has come under fire after conceding eight goals in four games, particularly Daniele Bonera and Mattia De Sciglio.

“It’s pointless trying to seek a scapegoat every time. Bonera has been here for eight years, he trains well and always played regularly. I choose who to play each game based on their form and the guarantees they can give me.

“De Sciglio had good performances, in my view. He is a serious professional and lives the life of an athlete. We must give him time to improve, find that sharpness and adapt to playing on the left. I am not worried about him.

“We need to do something to fix the number of goals we concede from set plays and I think tomorrow the concentration levels will be higher.”

Milan started out with two consecutive victories, but have since picked up just one point from the next two games.

“I had warned to stay calm after the two wins, because this team needs to work hard. We are the most prolific side in Serie A and that is important, but at Empoli we conceded two avoidable goals. We know we have to improve, but I am seeing very positive things.

“If you want to criticise, then aim it at me and leave the lads alone. If you even make good moments seem difficult, then of course everything becomes more complicated.”

President Silvio Berlusconi made his usual Friday visit to the Milanello training ground to give a pep talk.

“He is a reassuring presence,” assured Inzaghi. “He arrived remarkably fired up and wanted to talk to the players. He is a resource for us and we want to make him happy.”

Berlusconi has said on several occasions that poor Rossoneri results were because Inzaghi and the team “did not follow” his indications.

“I listen to everyone, including the President, and then I make my decisions. I am the Coach. I hope they are the best decisions so that we can win,” replied SuperPippo.

“We’ve got Essien back and lost Van Ginkel, so tomorrow I’ll evaluate the best midfield to use. Fernando Torres has fully recovered and will play. He’s in good form, though not at his best yet. He’s happy for the goal against Empoli and worked really hard, so he’s in good spirits.

“We mustn’t look at the table now, as we have to grow day by day. Obviously our objective this season is to get back into Europe and with this enthusiasm we can do well.”