[D-Kin]

Carlo Ancelotti admits this is a crucial victory for Milan and Alberto Gilardino, changing the atmosphere around the club.

They had been in what President Silvio Berlusconi called “a pitch black crisis” without a Serie A win since Week 1, but the 5-1 demolition of Lazio revived their fortunes.

“I’d say that we had a bit of a nervous start, but after taking the lead we built up this win. It was a delicate and difficult game, but certainly changes the atmosphere surrounding the club,” confirmed the Coach.

“Our second half was of a very high level, alternating possession with quick moves into space. The two strikers played brilliantly.”

Gilardino had been jeered by the Rossoneri fans after failing to score a single goal all season, but broke his duck with a spectacular brace.

Another player under the spotlight was Nelson Dida following his theatrical reaction to a pitch invasion at Celtic Park.

“I never considered dropping Dida. I think he remains a great goalkeeper who, like everyone, makes mistakes, but we never thought of replacing him,” assured Ancelotti.

“The break for international duty comes at the right time, as it allows us to recover some players we had out injured. We accept criticism, but some went over the line. In any case, it has been a complicated week.”

This emphatic 5-1 win over Lazio was particularly needed after Wednesday’s shock 2-1 Champions League loss to Celtic.

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