[han2503]

Milan - Celtic

Knock Out Stage - Matchday 8 - 2006/2007

Wednesday 7th of March 2007

Time: 20:45 (Italian Time) 19:45 (UK Time)

[Bluesummers]

05/03/2007 4.38
Nakamura Warns Celtic About Milan Antics Shunsuke Nakamura has warned his Celtic team-mates to be careful of AC Milan’s antics during Wednesday’s Champions League second leg at the San Siro Stadium.
The two teams fought out a 0-0 draw two weeks ago in Glasgow in the second round tie, and the midfielder who spent three years in Serie A with Reggina, is hoping that a strong referee is in charge of the game.
The inspirational playmaker was not surprised that Alberto Gilardino was booked for diving in the first leg and wants similar officiating on Wednesday.
"Before the Milan game at Celtic Park I warned Stephen McManus and Darren O'Dea not to dive in from behind with tackles on Gilardino,� the Japanese international told the Sunday Mail.
“I knew he would go to ground easily - that's the way he is. That's the way all Italian strikers are. He is a good player - clever when it comes to being in and around the box, if you know what I mean. We will have to be careful of this in the San Siro. Giving away free-kicks around the area will be dangerous because of Andrea Pirlo's skill from that distance.
"I just hope we get a strong referee who doesn't stand for any cheating. I know from my time in Italy that it goes on.
"We've had good officials so far in the Champions League and will need another one on Wednesday."
Nakamura has never won during his six visits to the San Siro but knows that thanks to away goals, a draw could be enough for Celtic.
"If we are treated fairly we have a good chance of getting a result. If we can score first it will give us a great advantage. But even if Milan score first we still only need one goal to go through to the quarter-finals.
"I've played at the San Siro against AC Milan and Inter and the best result I got was a draw.
"Knocking out a team like Milan would be my greatest achievement in football.
"People will be sitting up in Japan watching the game at 3am and I hope to make it worth their while.
"To get a good result we must make sure we do not allow Kaka and Pirlo to play freely. Neil Lennon and Evander Sno looked after them well in the first game and we'll have to do the same."

http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=248561