Massimiliano Allegri has hinted at transforming Milan to a three-man defence to mirror Inter in tomorrow’s Derby della Madonnina.
“I think the derby is a different game from all the others, where there isn’t really a favourite, or if so then it is turned around on the night,” said the Coach.
The Rossoneri turned a corner midweek with their 3-2 Champions League win over Zenit St Petersburg.
“That victory could mean a lot or nothing at all. We are facing a great team with players like Esteban Cambiasso, Javier Zanetti, Walter Samuel, Diego Milito and Antonio Cassano who have many ‘battles’ behind them.
“Inter are a smart and experienced side as well as having technical qualities. We have to be smarter and sneakier than them. Don’t forget that is a crucial characteristic if you want to win League and European titles.
“What do I envy Inter? Nothing. I am happy to have the lads at my disposal, both for their quality and the enthusiasm they bring. At times we make mistakes and these have to be eliminated.”
Stephan El Shaarawy is expected to start after his stunning form, scoring five goals in his last four games.
“Is El Shaarawy the heir to Andriy Shevchenko? Now all the different comparisons have emerged, but I think he has completely different characteristics to Sheva. He has to grow in many ways, even if he has already improved so much from last season.”
Inter have adopted a new three-man defence and Allegri hints Milan could potentially mirror it on Sunday night.
“I will say we ended the Zenit game with three at the back, something we had already been practising for some time. There are situations in which the team could be called on to play in a different way. I still have to evaluate some things. It could be a way of playing in an even more attacking manner.
“We’ve got to make the crosses for Giampaolo Pazzini more accurate. It’s difficult for me to say right now whether he will start or Bojan.”
Pazzini will be facing his former club, but so will Cassano, who blasted Milan after demanding a transfer this summer.
“Cassano is an extraordinary player and I think few in the world can pass the ball like him, so we must be wary when he has possession,” continued the Coach.
“He was important for Milan, just as Milan was for Cassano. I know President Silvio Berlusconi is in Russia for work commitments tomorrow, so he will not be at San Siro.”
