[D-Kin]

Carletto counts out Kalac Tuesday 19 February, 2008

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Carlo Ancelotti doesn’t expect goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac to play against Arsenal tomorrow, but he has faith that his veterans will protect Valerio Fiori.

Milan are facing a ‘keeping crisis after Kalac dislocated the phalanx of his finger just days after Nelson Dida picked up a freak back injury while sitting on the bench.

It seems that 38-year-old third choice Fiori, who has played just two games in eight seasons, will be given the gloves in London with youth custodian Daniel Offredi on the bench.

“I don’t think that Kalac will make it,” Ancelotti admitted.

“A finger is very important for a goalkeeper, but we will see after training this evening. If he doesn’t manage to train then Fiori will play.

“It’s no a problem because the way a team plays is never based on the ‘keeper – if a side plays well then there’s no need for him.”

Striking starlet Alexandre Pato is with the squad, but is likely to start on the bench due to his ankle problem.

“We aren’t in top condition, but nobody is in Italy or Europe,” Carletto said. “These games aren’t about the condition of the players, but about concentration and experience.

“We have expertise and we are used to this kind of game. It will be a very close encounter, which will be difficult for both teams, but this kind of game brings out an incredible energy.

“Arsenal are a very dynamic side who play attacking football. They play with great enthusiasm, but we know how to show courage and personality.

“This team have always stepped up on these occasions and so I am calm and think that we can do the job.”

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