Milan legend Andriy Shevchenko says it’s ‘time for Rafael Leao’ to make the difference in the Champions League and believes the Rossoneri should not play a defensive game against Tottenham.
The former Rossoneri and Chelsea forward will be in the stands at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium tonight in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16.
Milan beat Antonio Conte’s men 1-0 in the first leg at San Siro in February.
Sheva, who won the Champions League with the Rossoneri in 2002-03, expects Leao to make the difference in North London tonight.
“Leao has all the qualities to be decisive at the highest levels,” the former Ballon d’Or winner told Gazzetta.
“It’s time for him to make the difference in the Champions League. He can improve. He should be more involved in the game and be a leader in everything he does. I cheer for Charles De Ketelaere as well. A big game will unlock him.”
Aside from the Portuguese, what will the Rossoneri need to qualify for the quarter-finals?
“Repeat the performance of the first leg. I liked Milan’s mentality at San Siro,” noted Sheva.
“They were always in the game. Players were determined and I noticed the same energy that inspired their previous successes. They must have the same commitment in London.”
His former teammate Alessandro Nesta said in an interview on Tuesday that Milan should not play a defensive game.
“Sandro is right, Milan must do their part and play well,” said Shevchenko.
“They should not only just defend. They have experienced players who know how to handle certain situations, but facing English clubs away is different. Tottenham will raise the pressure, so Milan must not be too defensive.”
Tottenham’s Harry Kane will be the biggest threat to the Rossoneri’s defence tonight: “He is a player who can cause trouble at any moment. He’s a champion and a true leader who plays for the team. Malick Thiaw and his teammates must be fully focused. Nights like these can lead to a superior level,” concluded the Rossoneri legend.