Michael Essien believes that Vicente Calderon will play its part when Milan take on Atletico Madrid tonight.
The Italian side come to the Spanish capital this evening looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit in their Champions League Last 16 second leg.
And the Ghana international has admitted that the home crown will be a factor.
“We know the kind of atmosphere that the Atletico fans can produce here,” he told a Press conference.
“We know we’ll be able to feel that, but we’re here to play football.”
The former Real Madrid man then remarked on the importance this game has for him personally, and his arrival at the Rossoneri from Chelsea.
“Yes, this is something of a small derby for me!
“I had the offer of coming to Milan, and then Seedorf arrived. [Chelsea boss Jose] Mourinho told me it was a good option.”
