Allegri: ‘Milan no sacrificial lambs’

Massimiliano Allegri has dismissed the notion that Barcelona will walk over Milan in their Champions League Last 16 encounter.

The Italians host their Spanish counterparts this Wednesday for the first leg of their European knockout clash very much second favourites to progress.

“We won’t be the sacrificial lambs, the game will start at 0-0. It will be down to what happens on the pitch,” countered Milan Coach Allegri today, when asked of the odds.

“We know that we are facing the strongest side in the world, but, in recent years, we haven’t done badly against them.

“We need to start the game with the conviction that we can qualify. We need to create the conditions to get through this round.

“We need to limit their possession of the ball so that they can’t take advantage of that in the attacking third. They could give us a few opportunities at the back.”

Allegri goes into the game with the advice of his President Silvio Berlusconi to man-mark Lionel Messi out of the game.

“The advice of the President is always well received. After 25 years of Milan, he knows football and he often has genius ideas.

“I, though, work with the squad on a daily basis. I look to do what’s best.

“Messi is a dangerous player, like Iniesta. They are extraordinary players. We’ll have to mark them well so they can’t express their qualities.”

Stephan El Shaarawy is set to feature, after returning to full training on Monday.

“El Shaarawy is in good shape and training. I’ll evaluate whether he’ll start tomorrow.

“In defence, the idea is to start with Cristian Zapata and Philippe Mexes in the middle, with Kevin Constant and Ignazio Abate on the flanks.

“We could play with a trident in attack, but it all depends on how Barcelona line up.

“I’m sure that our display will be up to standard. If we are fortunate then we could achieve something important. We’ll then return to thinking about Serie A and the derby.”

Tags Allegri Berlusconi Milan
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