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Rossi: Milan like Real Madrid Sunday 7 October, 2007

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Delio Rossi has asked his Lazio side to face Milan the same way they did Real Madrid in Wednesday’s impressive 2-2 draw.

“We have to put in a performance of the highest level, as we cannot afford to drop the intensity or quality by even the smallest margin.


“Milan are one of the greats, like Real Madrid, but they are even more compact than the Spaniards. Let us not forget a month ago they won the European Super Cup. We have to repeat our performance against Real.”


In that Champions League tie midweek, Real were twice ahead at the Olimpico through Ruud van Nistelrooy, but the Biancocelesti had most of the chances and drew level thanks to Goran Pandev’s brace.


Tommaso Rocchi raced against the clock to be fit for that match, but could be rested for Milan, while Cristian Ledesma is out for at least a month after undergoing keyhole surgery on the meniscus ligament in his knee this morning.


“Nestor Muslera will be in goal. Roberto Baronio can play in Ledesma’s place, although he is more of a creator and less of a filter.”


Rossi will come face to face with Massimo Oddo, who left Lazio in January and has spoken highly of the Coach since his departure.


“I have always remained in good relations with my former players. I like to think that when he lifted the Champions League trophy in May, there was a little bit of Lazio in there too. I will be happy to welcome him with a hug.”


Nelson Dida is expected to start in goal for Milan just days after his Celtic Park theatrics caused controversy and widespread condemnation.


“Let us just say that the fan’s behaviour was poor and so was Dida’s.”

channel4.com - Football Italia