Vincenzo Montella admits to several doubts as Milan face Chievo in a fight for third place, including Manuel Locatelli and Gianluca Lapadula.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“The break for international duty did us good, as it has been an intense and important week,” said the Coach.
Vincenzo Montella admits to several doubts as Milan face Chievo in a fight for third place, including Manuel Locatelli and Gianluca Lapadula.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“The break for international duty did us good, as it has been an intense and important week,” said the Coach.
“Chievo are particularly experienced, aside from the average age of the squad, as they know how to wait and soak up pressure before striking. They play for the result, so this is going to be very tough.
“In terms of organisation, they remind me of a small Juventus, as they have that same mentality. I know Rolando Maran well, we have great respect and admiration for each other.
“I read somewhere that Milan tend to struggle after international breaks, so we have to work hard and change that statistic. The squad looks more motivated and happy after the win over Sassuolo. If we win, then yes, I really could start to feel the pull of European qualification.”
The Rossoneri are without injured Riccardo Montolivo for six months after he tore his ACL on international duty. Either Jose Ernesto Sosa or 18-year-old Locatelli will be given the nod to start in place of the captain.
“I haven’t decided yet. It is a pleasant decision to make, as they are both very good players who have slightly different characteristics.
“I fear we will miss Montolivo a great deal, perhaps more than anyone realises. If we win tomorrow, naturally we’ll dedicate it to him, but right now we must work without alibis.”
Carlos Bacca could also be rested after international duty with Colombia, giving ex-Pescara striker Lapadula a rare chance to shine.
“Bacca was a little tired after the long journey, but is used to that by now. I have a few doubts on who to use upfront tomorrow and today will help me make that decision.
“Lapadula has gained confidence and really improved physically. He has great hunger and temperament, at times too much, as he needs to focus his energy a bit better.”