Alexandre Pato looks ahead to Napoli–Milan, explains why he took the penalty and denies he was attacked by angry fans.
The striker sat down with Milan Channel just days after a 3-1 home defeat to Fiorentina” data-scaytid=”3″>Fiorentina in which he blasted a penalty over the bar.
Alexandre Pato looks ahead to Napoli-Milan, explains why he took the penalty and denies he was attacked by angry fans.
The striker sat down with Milan Channel just days after a 3-1 home defeat to Fiorentina in which he blasted a penalty over the bar.
“The game didn’t go the way we expected and unfortunately we lost three points at home, but now have to focus on Napoli,” said The Duck.
“I can say we are growing, but cannot keep throwing points away like this. On Saturday we have a very important match with Napoli and must think about winning it.
“I am disappointed at missing the spot-kick, but I am a penalty taker and so am not afraid to miss. If I should find myself on that spot again in future, maybe even against Napoli, I would not pull back.
“I put all of myself into it. Unfortunately the ball went out, but I cannot say I gave it less than 100 per cent, as I practiced it in training.”
Pato was jeered off the field after that miss and substituted at the break, but there were reports he was even surrounded and harassed by angry fans after the game.
“It is impossible not to hear the whistles of the fans and I agree with them, as I know how tough it is for fans accustomed to great victories and important trophies. We are in a growth process and many champions left, so we are doing our best. I’m sure they are close to the team and will never leave us.
“I read someone claimed the fans attacked my car when I was in it, but that’s just not true. I left San Siro the way I usually do and criticism is understandable, but not when they make stuff up.”
Pato missed almost an entire season with muscular problems and has just returned to the field, but is lacking match fitness and sharpness.
“I am back after a long time, but in a way I never left. I have always been here working hard and am back playing on the pitch, which is what makes me happy. When I reach 100 per cent, everything will be fine.
“To those who say I am scared of hurting myself again, I reply that they don’t know me. The only time I was ever afraid was when I was 10 years old and risked losing an arm.
“I have never felt so calm, as I am working well in a great squad with marvellous fans.”