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AC Milan - Milanfan.com _ Matches _ Serie A - Week 23 - A.C. Milan vs S.S. Lazio
Posted by: TriniKing_CE Jan 30 2011, 08:57 PM
Back by popular demand! 
I give you the match thread for A.C. Milan vs S.S. Lazio
The final midweek round of the Serie A season will take place next week and Milan face Lazio at the San Siro on Tuesday for the 68th time.
(In the photo - action from Milan-Lazio on March, 28, 2010)
MILAN - Three days after the game at Catania, Milan are back in action on Tuesday when they will play Lazio in the 23rd round of the season at the San Siro.
Of the 67 games, Milan have won 39, drawn 19 and lost just nine. The Rossoneri have scored 136 goals, eight of those have come from the penalty spot.
Last season's match finished in a draw with Marco Borriello scoring for the home side, with Lichsteiner equalising. The last Rossoneri success was on September 21, 2008 which finished 4-1, with Pato and Kaka on the scoresheet as did Zambrotta.
The season before that was also a 1-1 draw and before that Milan won 2-1 with Filippo Inzaghi and Ricardo Oliveira scoring. The game in 2005-06 ended 2-0 thanks to two goals from Kaka. The encounter in 2004-05 was on February 6, 2005 and once again it was 2-1 for Milan. This time Andriy Shevchenko and Hernan Crespo were on the scoresheet.
The last Milan defeat was back in 1989-90 which finished 1-0 with Paolo Maldini scoring an own goal.
The game with the most goals came on October 18, 1992 which finished 5-3 to Milan: 13' Gullit, 15' Papin, 34' rig. 61'pen. Van Basten, 80' Simone (MILAN); 21' Winter, 52' Fuser, 65' Signori (LAZIO). And on February 8, 1931, 5-3: 13', 82' Capra, 14', 54', 87' Moretti (MILAN); 9', 79' Piola, 65' D'Odorico.
Lazio will come into the game on the back of a home win over Fiorentina and are currently on 40 points, with 12 wins, four draws and six defeats. They have scored nine and conceded 10 goals but have only picked one point in the last four away games, with that draw at Genoa.
Link: http://www.acmilan.com/en/news/show/131903
Milan were back training this morning after their win at Catania last night
MILANELLO - After defeating Catania, Milan were back training at Milanello to prepare for the game against Lazio at the San Siro on Tuesday.
The team started the session at 10.30 with the players going through a light work-out in the gym for half an hour.
The players then divided into two groups with those who played last night remaining in the gym; Abbiati, Roma, Pato, Flamini, Oddo, Papastathopoulos, Oduamadi, Jankulovski, and new-arrival Didac Vilà, in his first work-out, went out to the central pitch for a five-a-side game which Massimiliano Allegri watched.
The players then worked on some tactical drills. As for individual players, Pirlo ran lengths of the pitch, Seedorf went through his own work-out and after spending the first part of the session in the gym, the defender ran some drills out of the pitch.
Allegri will hold his press conference tomorrow at 14.00 and the team will train at 15.30..
Link: http://www.acmilan.com/en/news/show/131901
See Sig... < Forza Milan!!! >
Posted by: han2503 Jan 30 2011, 09:49 PM
So we'll have Flamini back, but still nothing about Pirlo...
Considering we lost Ambro and Van Bommel, Flamini's return is more then a blessing.
Posted by: CHU-LIP Jan 30 2011, 10:49 PM
Please I hope Flamini can and will start. Furby/Merkel - Thiago Silva - Flamini would be my choice for midfield.
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 30 2011, 10:50 PM
Furby instead of Merkel, please.
Posted by: Jack Bauer Jan 30 2011, 10:56 PM
Abbi, Oddo, Papa, Yepes, Antonini, Urby, Silva, Flamini, Robinho, Ibra, Pato.
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 30 2011, 11:00 PM
Put Legrottaglie instead of Papa. 
Posted by: Jack Bauer Jan 30 2011, 11:11 PM
I have a bad feeling that Max is gonna put Bonera next to Yepes. The only place that I can somehow tolerate Bonera is RB and even that with alcohol help.
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 30 2011, 11:42 PM
I think it's time for us to accept the fact that Sokratis will never be considered a valid alternative, at least as long as Allegri will be our coach. The fact we've now signed Legrottaglie must be like a kick in the teeth for the poor guy.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Jan 30 2011, 11:47 PM
It's not official yet. But if there's a rift between them, it's something personal. Because Allegri wasn't that harsh to anyone in the team, he looks the other way every time Rino, Abate, Antonini, Boateng, Bonera or Robinho make crucial mistakes. Only Sokratis has been blacklisted. There's got to be more to that.
Posted by: Bluesummers Jan 31 2011, 02:02 AM
or maybe he just isn't good enough?? I don't know it could be alot of things but he hasn't shown anything on the field that screams out starting 11.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Jan 31 2011, 02:07 AM
Not good enough? What has Bonera done that showed any potential at all? When he replaced Nesta, he played a superb match. I the Coppa game he was also more then solid. So I'm not inclined to say he's not ready. If he isn't ready, the Strasser and Merkel are galaxies away.
Posted by: acid911 Jan 31 2011, 02:26 AM
Agreed, mate.
And I never heard of Sokratis before he signed up for Milan, but from what little matches I have seen him in the red and black shirt, he gave it all, and his performance has been steady at the back. Sure he made one or two mistakes, but who hasn't? Even guys like Silva, Ibra, Pato, Nesta and Flamini have been less than perfect.The errors Bonera made are probably enough to banish anyone to the bench, and yet here we find it all reversed. Bonera should be at his peak now, and if this is his peak, then God Save the Queen, after all.
There was this one surefire goal that Bonera stopped from going into the net, cleared from the line. I along with Dst and other members were impressed and thought he had it in him. Sure it was in the Age of Maldini, a few years back, but the guy has fallen from grace. He just hasn't realized his potential. It pains me to say this, only Oddo matched Bonera's errors in the last two years. Janku is a saint in front of these guys.And yet, Papa who has committed errors which if measured are 10% of Bonera still only seems to break in when a body is injured. Sad stats of affairs, and this is coming from a guy who is not a fan of the player. I was a bit of a fan of Huntelaar, but at least Leo played him (out of position, and all). You don't make mistakes Bonera made (three of them in one match) at the age of 29. You just don't, he should have tackled the opponent at the very least, instead of standing and following him like a dork.
EARN THE SHIRT. Thank you, come again!
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 02:52 AM
Sokratis may be young, but this is his third year in Italy. He collected 51 presences with Genoa in two years. He was a regular starter for Greece in the World Cup, and even managed to hold down Messi when Greece played Argentina. The kid has all the necessary qualities to be our first back-up choice. He simply lacks Allegri's faith, and that is unfair.
Posted by: Jack Bauer Jan 31 2011, 10:13 AM
So true. If Papa was frozen for the Cesena game from the beginning of the season, Bonera should have been banned for life for the Udinese disgrace. But yet Allegri still trusts him. I'll be really disappointed if Bonera is gonna be our CB tomorrow.
Posted by: acid911 Jan 31 2011, 10:18 AM
Agreed.
But then again more than half of the forum has been saying this for the best part of the season. More so after the Udinese game you mentioned. While Papa has been quite decent in the couple of matches he played, even when coming from the bench, he has shown his desire to fit in and earn his spot with good performances.Frankly, people have been banished for much less after what Bonera pulled off in that 4 goal fest against Udinese.
Posted by: kurtsimonw Jan 31 2011, 11:00 AM
A win here and even with 15 games to go after it, you'd have to start thinking there's only 2 teams realistically in the title race. Everyone else will be 9/10+ points behind even if they win their game in hand.
Time to start getting excited if we pick up 3 points!
Posted by: han2503 Jan 31 2011, 11:51 AM
Come on blue!!! And you think Bonera is good enough????? There is no logical reason as to why Bonera should be ahead of Sokratis in the pecking order aside from Allegri being a douche
Time to start getting excited if we pick up 3 points!
Personally I think we'll lose points in this, Lazio are a strong side and our squad is literally decimated on all fronts aside from the attack. If we win this, you're right, we can start really getting excited, but I just can't see us winning this one...
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 12:38 PM
I think we'll win han. Lazio are quite a beatable side. Plus, they have their own absences, Zarate and Floccari most of all.
Posted by: han2503 Jan 31 2011, 12:56 PM
Hopefully you're right, but after the last couple of games and all our injuries I just have a bad feeling about this one. Hopefully Allegri puts out the best 11 without personal issues clouding his judgment.
Posted by: Zed.D Jan 31 2011, 01:20 PM
Just play Pato. this is a home game and he likes scoring against Lazio.
Posted by: amancik Jan 31 2011, 01:24 PM
I am quite certain Pato will play from the start.
Posted by: han2503 Jan 31 2011, 01:29 PM
Hopefully...
Question is, who will he come in for? Robinho or Cassano? Both have their pros and cons imo
Posted by: Jack Sparrow Jan 31 2011, 01:32 PM
I think for Cassano. Though Robinho could use the rest. We'll know once the press conference kicks off.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Jan 31 2011, 02:29 PM
I think this is a bit unfair to say. We all don't know everything that happens with the team, and there might as well be another reason we simply do not know. So I would not be that explicit.
Posted by: Jack Bauer Jan 31 2011, 03:10 PM
Question is, who will he come in for? Robinho or Cassano? Both have their pros and cons imo
In all probable line ups Cassano is on the bench. But also Bonera is playing as CB.
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 03:21 PM
Easy, Cassano. Allegri won't bench Robinho, he's having a great moment. Cassano isn't ready yet to play two games in a row. Here's the probable line-up:
Abate - Bonera - Yepes - Antonini
Flamini - T. Silva - Emanuelson
Robinho
Pato - Ibrahimovic
I'd say, defense aside, that's a very competitive line-up.
If Abate won't be available, then expect Oddo to play on the right. The rest should be confirmed. Also, I'm really curious to see Dídac Vilà play some minutes.
Posted by: han2503 Jan 31 2011, 04:29 PM
Abate - Bonera - Yepes - Antonini
Flamini - T. Silva - Emanuelson
Robinho
Pato - Ibrahimovic
I'd say, defense aside, that's a very competitive line-up.
If Abate won't be available, then expect Oddo to play on the right. The rest should be confirmed. Also, I'm really curious to see Dídac Vilà play some minutes.
Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Jan 31 2011, 04:58 PM
I just wish thiAgo could play cb for this one... Also is sokratis injured? I can see merkel doing well against a team like lazio outside of foggia and zarate there is no speed on their team imo. With kozak in form i would hate to play bonnerA. Maybe bonnera has a rich daddy who does some buissness with berlu. Its the only way his inclusion could warrAnt sokratis' exclusion
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 05:08 PM
No, Sokratis is not injured. He should be on the bench. Zarate and Floccari won't be available for Lazio. They'll be playing with only one striker (Kozak) supported by Hernanes and Mauri. Thus, I think playing Thiago in front of the defense is a good idea for this match. But it's not like we have any other solutions in midfield anyway.
Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Jan 31 2011, 05:32 PM
i's rather Merkel play as CM then bonnera at CB...
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 06:08 PM
Called-up players: Abbiati, Roma, Antonini, Bonera, Didac Vilà (n.35), Jankulovski, Legrottaglie (n.66), Oddo, Papastathopoulos, Thiago Silva, Yepes, Calvano (n.54), Emanuelson, Flamini, Merkel, Cassano, Ibrahimovic, Oduamadi, Pato, Robinho.
So, Legrottaglie has chosen #66 and Didac Vilà #35. I know that talking about shirt numbers is very childish, but why can't they choose normal numbers, like 2, 5, 12, 22, 24 etc? Jeez!!!
Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Jan 31 2011, 06:30 PM
it won't happen but i'd love to see D. Villa and Odumandi play this game
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 06:49 PM
First of all, he's called Oduamadi, without the 'n'. Secondly, why are you so obsessed with him? I'd give you right if you called Strasser or Merkel, or even Verdi, but Oduamadi has proven nothing. He was a joke in pre-season, and I remember that one performance against Catania in September, when people started laughing at his clumsiness. I'd pass if I were you.
Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Jan 31 2011, 06:56 PM
he's been very good in the primavera this year and shows promise. i won't argue that he is really raw atm but he is pretty good. I just want to see him play, he has a great flair about him. I'm not going to say he deserves to start over any one, I just like his style.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Jan 31 2011, 09:06 PM
Who the hell is Calvano?
Vila and Oduamadi
Actually, I agree with you. I don't get it. Is it so cool to have a number on your back that's also part of your birthyear? I really don't get it. But maybe numbers like 5 and 22 are reserved for "better" or "permanent" players.
Posted by: X-Offender Jan 31 2011, 10:19 PM
Vila had #5 at Espanyol and #12 at Spain U20. Why didn't he pick any of those? They were free.
Posted by: Zed.D Feb 1 2011, 09:46 AM
The only conclusion I can draw is that in a big club like Milan, such random numbers as 35 put less pressure on a 20yo kid than main numbers like 5 do...
Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 1 2011, 10:49 AM
I'd never thought of it like that, you do have a point. Especially if it's a number that down the year has gained some sort of 'legend' status. It could probably be said for everyone, not just young players. Like Oliveria having to take over from Sheva's #7, such pressure to succeed.
Posted by: Zed.D Feb 1 2011, 10:56 AM
Exactly. but then again, we gave a 18yo Pato that #7...
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 1 2011, 11:04 AM
Indeed. And also, may Costacurtas legacy be a pressure for the next number 5, but there's also Emersons legacy.
I don't think it's that. Antonini, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cassano...I don't think those players wanted to avoid pressure.
Posted by: Zed.D Feb 1 2011, 02:03 PM
I was specifically talking about Vila.
As for the players you mentioned, Dinho (as well as Binho) and Ronaldo picked #80 and #99 simply because #10 and #9 weren't available. and Cassano wore #99 at Samp as well so it's not unusual.
Don't know about Luca...
Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 1 2011, 02:16 PM
I think players don't really get the 'proper' numbers till they're certain of being actual first team squad players. It might also be superstition. For example, Antonini and Silva because they did so well with their old numbers might be hesitant to change.
EDIT: Silva's is different. He wanted 3, and that being unavailable chose 33.
P.S: It's amazing how it feels odd to not have something to complain about, so we brought up this issue. Man, we suck! But let's not stop!! 
Whine till the apocalypse my friends! 
Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 1 2011, 02:51 PM
As for the players you mentioned, Dinho (as well as Binho) and Ronaldo picked #80 and #99 simply because #10 and #9 weren't available. and Cassano wore #99 at Samp as well so it's not unusual.
Don't know about Luca...
Cassano wore the 99 at Sampdoria as a tribute to Ronaldo after he chose 99 at Milan
So it's only natural that when he arrived at Milan and 9 was obviously out of the question, 99 would be his to wear.
I actually find 99 acceptable for some reason too, aside from other exceedingly larger and awkward double digits.
I think I can thank R9 for that too.
Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 1 2011, 03:03 PM
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This afternoon the Rossoneri had their final training session ahead of tomorrow’s Serie A clash against Lazio. The team trained on the central field. Coach Allegri’s men first did the warm-up, then worked on ball possession and tactics before playing a match amongst the squad. Flamini and new signings Didac Vilà and Legrottaglie trained with the rest of the group. All three have been included in the squad for tomorrow’s game against the Biancocelesti.
(IN THE PHOTO Flamini in the group)
MILANELLO - Milan’s season continues without a break. Two days after the away game at Catania another massive match awaits the Rossoneri, as coach Allegri’s team is set to host Lazio at the San Siro tomorrow evening.
The team began training on the central field at 15.00 CET, after Massimiliano Allegri’s pre-game press conference. The first twenty minutes were dedicated to warm-up, then passing drills in couples and groups of three followed.
Afterwards, the Rossoneri did a series of ball possession exercises for about 20-25 minutes, before coach Allegri had them work on tactics, with the match against Lazio in mind. The session finished with the usual match amongst the squad.
As for individuals, Nicola Legrottaglie and Didac Vilà completed the entire practice with the rest of the group, as did Mathieu Flamini.
At the end of the session, coach Allegri named his squad for tomorrow’s game against Lazio:
Abbiati, Roma, Antonini, Bonera, Didac Vilà (no. 35), Jankulovski, Legrottaglie (no. 66), Oddo, Papastathopoulos, Thiago Silva, Yepes, Calvano (no. 54), Emanuelson, Flamini, Merkel, Cassano, Ibrahimovic, Oduamadi, Pato, Robinho.
Unavailable: Amelia, Abate, Nesta, Zambrotta, Ambrosini, Boateng, Gattuso, Pirlo, Seedorf, Strasser, Inzaghi.
Suspended: Van Bommel.
Link: http://www.acmilan.com/en/news/show/131916
Against Lazio the will need to play 'with great intensity, right off the start’, said Massimiliano Allegris in his pre-game press coneference at Milanello today. The Rossoneri coach also welcomed new signing Nicola Legrottaglie, who is set to train with his new teammates this afternoon and then probably will get called up for tomorrow’s game against the Roman side ‘to give a hand’ if needed. As for the formation, coach Allegri said that ‘Ibra will play, I’m still to choose between Cassan and Pato. We’ve lost two men in midfield, but Flamini is back’.
(In the photo, coach Allegri during today’s press conference at Milanello)
MILANELLO – This is what Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri had to say in his pre-game press conference this afternoon:
ON THE FORMATION
‘I’ll see later this afternoon, after the training session. In midfield, we have lost two players, Ambrosini and Van Bommel, to injury, but Flamini should be available again. He’s the only one to recover for this game.
Just as before the game at Catania, I can confirm that in attack Ibra will definitely play, but I don’t know yet about the others. Robinho may play and could be in the starting eleven tomorrow, because physically he’s fine. Then I’ll have to choose between Cassano and Pato. Antonio has played more lately and despite not being in top form from a fitness point of view, he’s been doing well and I’m satisfied with him’.
ON LEGROTTAGLIE’S ARRIVAL AND ON THE TRANSFER MARKET
‘We discussed it with the club and the management was ready to make a quick a move. We’re at the most difficult and most important stage of the season and we have a lot of injured players. In midfield, a lot of players are missing, but they are expected to recover before the injured defenders. Nesta and Zambrotta are still undergoing rehabilitation and Abate is still unavailable as well. We could use Legrottaglie’s experience. This afternoon he’ll train with us and then he could be available for selection for tomorrow’s game.
If his transfer was triggered by Thiago’s new position? Yes, but as I’ve already said, most of all because the injuries suffered by Nesta and Zambrotta, apart from Abate’s problems. Someone like Legrottaglie can be useful and could give us a hand.
A mark out of 10 to Milan’s transfer campaign? I won’t say 10, because 10 would mean perfect and I don't like considering anything that perfect. So I’d say 9’.
ON THE TEAM AND THE SEASON
‘The most important thing for is my players’ commitment. Also on Sunday, they all were ready to help the team. Jankulovski, who this season practically didn’t play before, gave us a hand. as did Oddo again after great performances against Genoa and Napoli before getting injured and then against Bari in the Italian Cup. Yepes is doing a good job as well and so does Papastathopoulos. When I make my decisions I’m serene, because I know that those who’ll play will give their best.
Now I have a lot of players at my disposal, but I think I’ll have no problems managing the squad, but choosing players to field. Those who won’t play in a given match will have to accept my decision calmly, but of course they shouldn’t just put up with it. All of us need to have only one thing in mind: winning. The Champions League list? Yes, it’s true that we’ve promised to Inzaghi to put him on the list. Hopefully, he’ll be available late March and that he’ll have the chance to play for us in the Champions League’.
ON MILAN-LAZIO
‘Lazio are doing pretty well, have great players and a strong team spirit. We’re at a crucial stage of the season, we can’t afford to lose points now. Our objective is getting at least 80 points, which in my opinion should be enough to win the championship. So we need 11 more wins. We have to take one game at a time. Lazio are very strong technically thanks to players like Hernanes, Mauri, Ledesma, Matuzalem, Brocchi and and at the back have a solid defence. They’re good at counter-attacks. We’ll need to be careful and determined. The match at Catania, the one against Lazio and the game against Genoa are three fundamental encounters for us. We’re not looking too much ahead, as I said, we want to take one game at a time.
An adjective for tomorrow’s match? It’s a difficult question. It will be a match in which we’ll need to play with great intensity. It will be important to approach the game with the right attitude. They tend to lower the pace and so we’ll have to try to maintain a high intensity’.
ON ALEXANDRE PATO
‘If he’ll play tomorrow, I’ll expect a great performance from him, like the one he put in against Sampdoria and Cesena, when he was a substitute. Pato’s qualities can’t be doubted and this goes for every Milan player. The championship, the Italian Cup and the Champions League are three competitions in which you have to play with great intensity if you want to do well, as it showed against Catania. At the Massimino, Pato was set to come on in the second half, he warmed up, but then fortunately I waited to make the substitution. If I hadn’t, we would have finished the game with 9 players. I’m very pleased with what he’s doing’.
ON THE WIN AT CATANIA
’It was very important for us because of the three points and because we managed to win the game thanks to sacrifice and determination. You always have to give all you have and because of this I need everyone. Merkel? He’s played a lot recently, he worked a lot in the first half and did great things in a difficult game. For a youngster like him it was a good testing ground’.
Link: http://www.acmilan.com/en/news/show/131913
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 1 2011, 03:10 PM
As for the players you mentioned, Dinho (as well as Binho) and Ronaldo picked #80 and #99 simply because #10 and #9 weren't available. and Cassano wore #99 at Samp as well so it's not unusual.
Don't know about Luca...
Yes, but that's the problem - it's really rediculous. Ronaldinho wore the number 21 for both Brazil and PSG. Why can't players accept having normal numbers instead of #80 or like Coco had #77. The #99 I guess is kind of a hommage or something like that, but the others...
And why did Oddo all the sudden change from #44 to #17?
Posted by: acid911 Feb 1 2011, 04:27 PM
So it's only natural that when he arrived at Milan and 9 was obviously out of the question, 99 would be his to wear.
I actually find 99 acceptable for some reason too, aside from other exceedingly larger and awkward double digits.
I think I can thank R9 for that too.
And that, my friend, is the reason why you are the king.
Well said, totally agreed. In other words: +1.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 04:33 PM
Check out Real Madrid. They have 24 players in their roster, and the highest shirt number is #25 wore by Dudek. Whilst our wise guys have the following:
33 - Thiago Silva
35 - Dídac Vilà
52 - Alexander Merkel
66 - Nicola Legrottaglie
70 - Robinho
76 - Mario Yepes
77 - Luca Antonini
90 - Nnamdi Oduamadi
99 - Antonio Cassano
I think that looks really bad.
Posted by: Dracoris Feb 1 2011, 04:39 PM
Madrid are second place be 7 points. We are first by 4 points. I'll take the high number jerseys
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 04:49 PM
Fair enough.
Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 1 2011, 04:54 PM
I think Spain has rules regarding shirt numbers anyway. Don't they have to register a squad of 25 and those players have to wear 1-25?
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 1 2011, 04:55 PM
33 - Thiago Silva
35 - Dídac Vilà
52 - Alexander Merkel
66 - Nicola Legrottaglie
70 - Robinho
76 - Mario Yepes
77 - Luca Antonini
90 - Nnamdi Oduamadi
99 - Antonio Cassano
I think that looks really bad.
At least no one will ever top the stupidity of...
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 04:59 PM
Not really. There are plenty of other Spanish clubs that have shirt numbers #25 and higher.
I remember when we signed Rivaldo, and #10 was occupied by Rui Costa, there were rumors that he wanted to have his name written on the shirt as Rivald10.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 1 2011, 05:00 PM
I'm not sure. Coco used to wear #33 for Barca.
Posted by: acid911 Feb 1 2011, 07:19 PM
Well, at least it shows that we are a rich club when it comes to numbers. Seriously, don't like them very much!
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 07:29 PM
Jack is right, we literally don't have anything to complain about if we've gone past one page talking about shirt numbers
Maybe we should open a thread dedicated just for shirt number talk
Posted by: William405 Feb 1 2011, 07:50 PM
Complain about injuries,jinxes nd **** ;p
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 1 2011, 07:58 PM
MILAN: Abbiati, Oddo, Bonera, Yepes, Antonini, Flamini, Thiago Silva, Emanuelson; Robinho, Pato, Ibrahimovic
LAZIO: Muslera, Lichtsteiner, Biava, Dias, Radu; Gonzalez, Ledesma, Brocchi, Hernanes, Sculli, Kozak
Posted by: shevchenko_007 Feb 1 2011, 08:06 PM
^^ apart from bonera, that is a pretty strong line up and I am feeling confident about this one (as i have done since seedorf got injured). Let's just hope bonera doesn't have to come up against hernanes or else we will concede for sure.
P.s. Just got personalized number plates for my bday and am going to get ACMILAN88. So excited!
Posted by: milanbuf88 Feb 1 2011, 08:20 PM
links?
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 08:21 PM
LAZIO: Muslera, Lichtsteiner, Biava, Dias, Radu; Gonzalez, Ledesma, Brocchi, Hernanes, Sculli, Kozak
Why do Italian coaches have to be... well.. so ITALIAN!??!
Posted by: William405 Feb 1 2011, 08:27 PM
Yeah apart from Bonera,it's the best formation we have no,looking good.Anyway,I hope Bonera doesn't **** this up.
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 08:37 PM
i have lost all confidence after seeing BONERA
Posted by: acid911 Feb 1 2011, 08:40 PM
.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 08:42 PM
I'd have preferred Bonera on the right and Sokratis as central. Oddo is the real liability, not Bonera.
Posted by: acid911 Feb 1 2011, 08:45 PM
Some would beg to argue. Based on their showings this season, I'd put Oddo at 12/100 and Bonera, 8. Sadly.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 08:46 PM
FORZA MILAN!!!
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 08:49 PM
Based on their showings this season, I'd put Oddo at 12/100 and Bonera, 8. Sadly.ur marking is very harsh 12/100
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 08:58 PM
F@CK THESE LONG BALLS!!!
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:00 PM
Gonzales acting like a complete douch and smacking the ball at Emanuelsen
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:03 PM
How was that not a yellow for Kozac??
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:12 PM
we seem to be sleeping when it comes to playing the final through ball
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:19 PM
Well there is no one on the pitch that can really do that
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 09:20 PM
Emanuelson, what a chance!!
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:21 PM
aahh emaulson could have done better that is a ggod chance
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:21 PM
Kozak twice with the elbow straight to the face. Nothing!!! Ridiculous!
Posted by: samira Feb 1 2011, 09:22 PM
Your smallest post ever, lol just kidding
Oddo is trying to make the great assist he did a while a ago. He's trying good so far!
I wish he was better in the defence though
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:23 PM
Lol Oddo almost scoring from a cross
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:25 PM
is it yepes playing or nesta !!!
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 09:27 PM
Very "meh" first half. It's been a recurrence lately.
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 09:28 PM
Yeah!!
And Ibra Pato not working once again...
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:29 PM
And Ibra Pato not working once again...
i am worried about this they seem to pass to everyone else buth eachother
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 09:34 PM
I don't think they like each other...
Awww... I just saw a close up of Pato shaking his head in disappointment. Poor thing knows he is gonna get blamed.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:34 PM
The fact that we have no playmaker in there is really not helping any. The final ball is just terrible every time.
They need to really pick it up in the second half or we won't have any chance at this
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:35 PM
HT 0-0 i think milan were the better side need to create more and covert the chances.
Posted by: William405 Feb 1 2011, 09:35 PM
Pato tried to pass to Ibra several times...He started well the game,then drifted away.
Who needs Nesta when we have Yepes! 
Posted by: Ry4n Feb 1 2011, 09:38 PM
man it pisses me off that nearly every attack from the the centre back postion is comming from Bonera that part is not working at all stop it !
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 09:38 PM
Ibra yelling at Pato: "WAKE UP!"
Posted by: samira Feb 1 2011, 09:39 PM
Yepes is great! Might keep Thiago Silva in the midfield. Nesta and Yepes as CB
Posted by: Ry4n Feb 1 2011, 09:40 PM
Blaspheme !!!
just kidding , Yepes is probably the best player on the pitch at the moment , need to step it up 2nd half get Ibra more invovled in these counter attack instead of huge crosses that are'nt getting us anywhere leave that to Urby !!
Posted by: William405 Feb 1 2011, 09:41 PM
Ibra should shut up.
Also,if Legrotaglle enters instead of Sokratis,that'd be pure crap.
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:42 PM
when was that ?
Posted by: m1ke Feb 1 2011, 09:45 PM
It looks like this is going to be the case...
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:45 PM
Logs warming up
I guess that's just Sokratis' final nail in the coffin...
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 09:45 PM
I don't know. Some TV programme reported it.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 09:46 PM
OMG Legrottaglie in!!! 
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:47 PM
They both need to wake up if you ask me. Ibra is being lazy, especially when he's playing the offside line. Pato needs to pass to Ibra when he's in a better position.
Ibra needs to stop yelling at the others and look at his own performance instead.
Posted by: samira Feb 1 2011, 09:48 PM
Nicola Legrottaglie is sporting his new #66 Milan jersey today.He warming up at halftime..
Posted by: acid911 Feb 1 2011, 09:48 PM
True that.
Both Silva and Yepes have been excellent! LOL, yeah, I thought few would notice. But I was surely dumbfounded with Bonera starting after the good displays Papa put in, in the last couple of matches. Surprised and dumbfounded.I know, but fact is that it was the same Oddo who got an F last season.
Neither is he someone to build upon for the future, nor is he a supremely talented individual that can turn the game on its head. When on form and fit, Oddo makes the bench at most at a club with ambitions like us. Just a regular soldier in the ranks.Someone like Pirlo would still get 40/100 from me on his bad days. Unfortunately, other guys who have had a string of rock bottom performances, it's hard to get good ratings.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:48 PM
I still cannot understand this sh!t!!! He brings in a player that has barely had a day to train with the team at such a crucial time over a player who has been playing great wehn called upon! Allegri is a piece of work that's for sure
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:49 PM
why do we need to bring on a defender ?
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:50 PM
did bonera get injured?
Posted by: acid911 Feb 1 2011, 09:51 PM
+100.
More fuel for me to dislike coaches! First chance and they try to put their stamp on things, or freeze players they don't like. First R80, now Papa. Wonder who's next?!
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 1 2011, 09:53 PM
+1. Unbelievable. He's killing Papa's confidence.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:54 PM
Referee is ridiculous so far
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:55 PM
OMG!!!!
Ibra hits both posts and out!!!!
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 09:55 PM
Twice post.
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 09:56 PM
jw did that not go in i DAMNNNN
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 09:57 PM
Getting closer. Ibra pass to f**** Pato!!! FFS!!
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:00 PM
No, he made the right decision there.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:01 PM
Pato was wide open in the center. I'm not referring to when he hit the post
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:04 PM
My god, Lazio are wasting time like a bunch of losers.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:07 PM
Kovac should have been sent off about 45 minutes ago
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:07 PM
Cassano for Pato
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:08 PM
pato off, feel sorry for him
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:10 PM
This has a draw written all over it
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 1 2011, 10:10 PM
Robinho wouldn't score that even if you let him try it 100 times over again
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:11 PM
We'll draw this.
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:11 PM
yea lazio seem to be happy with that aswell
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:13 PM
Lazio don't deserve to be 3rd. They're playing like a small club.
Posted by: samira Feb 1 2011, 10:14 PM
I know, we probably learned that by now
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:14 PM
Off the line!!! FFS we cannot score!!
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 1 2011, 10:16 PM
We just can't catch a break today
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:16 PM
Lazio wasting time like no tomorrow
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:17 PM
Lol finally Kozac gets a yellow, should have been his third
Posted by: samira Feb 1 2011, 10:18 PM
Seriously, are they going to waste time like that in 20 MINUTES!?
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 1 2011, 10:18 PM
They are bunch of floppers
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:18 PM
Bresciano on. I hate this little ****. Always scores on us
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:20 PM
Wow Oddo, that was quite a shot!
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 10:20 PM
Oddo
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:22 PM
More time wasting
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:23 PM
This Lazio side is a crappy team. It'd be a shame if we can't beat them.
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 10:25 PM
What a bunch of time wasters... seriously...
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:27 PM
Kozak is a piece of sh!t!! Reminds me of Matrix in his heyday
Posted by: milanbuf88 Feb 1 2011, 10:27 PM
kozak is a dirty sob
Posted by: Bluesummers Feb 1 2011, 10:28 PM
wow..everyone falling like flies.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:28 PM
Sokratis coming on
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 10:28 PM
Kozak.... What a fucking c**t!
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:31 PM
What a bad finish by Urby.
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 10:31 PM
Emanuelson is attending the Robinho school of finishing!
Posted by: KillerMax Feb 1 2011, 10:32 PM
Oddo
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:32 PM
when is pirlo coming back ?
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:33 PM
oddo trying crosses with his left foot now
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:34 PM
Too many fouls. Too much time wasting. Really ugly game.
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:36 PM
how was that not a foul
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 1 2011, 10:39 PM
So frustrating...
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:40 PM
0-0 FT
Posted by: samira Feb 1 2011, 10:40 PM
THEEEEEEEY CAN FREAKING SHOOOOOOOOOOT!?
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:40 PM
2 points lost.
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:42 PM
i hope lazio fail to finish in top 4
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:42 PM
i hope lazio fail to finish in top 4
Posted by: Bluesummers Feb 1 2011, 10:42 PM
2 penalties not given. Stupid ref
Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 1 2011, 10:44 PM
we need pirlo back asap
Posted by: Dracoris Feb 1 2011, 10:44 PM
Not the end of the world, but we should've won.
Posted by: William405 Feb 1 2011, 10:45 PM
More injuries.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:46 PM
Lazio played a negatve game. their main intent was to injure players and get in their faces as much as they could. Kozak should have been off before half time.
The ref was ridiculous all game
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 10:47 PM
My short analysis on the match: we have no game! We had a fantastic spark around November and December, but that's disappeared. Tonight's performance was horrific. We kept sending those high balls hoping something would happen up front. No ball circulation, no short passes, no combinations, nothing! And this has been occurring since the first game of January. If we want to win the Scudetto by playing such a shitty football, we better re-think our strategies. Allegri, do something!!!
Posted by: han2503 Feb 1 2011, 10:52 PM
Allegri is a tool imo. But with all the injuries we have to players that make all the things you mention actually happen, you cannot really blame Allegri. We just need Pirlo and Boateng back ASAP.
Posted by: Dracoris Feb 1 2011, 10:53 PM
The absence of Pirlo and Boateng are hurting more than we thought
Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 1 2011, 11:03 PM
We go from Saturday being world-beaters, winning games we shouldn't to some real negative thoughts. Got to love Milanfan. It was only 0-0, it's not suddenly all over.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 11:04 PM
It's true, we have too many injuries. But then again, the only players who are injured that could change something are Pirlo and Boateng. Gattuso and Seedorf would only make things worse.
Maybe Allegri should have tried Dídac Vilà in the end. Our fullbacks have absolutely no connection to crossing.
Posted by: Ry4n Feb 1 2011, 11:05 PM
we should have bought Ivan Rakitić he was going for 1.5mil this january.....we need a play maker badly !!!!!!
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 11:07 PM
Not really. We've been playing like crap for a month now. Catania was no different. The only difference was that there we won, tonight we drew. I'm not judging the final result, I'm judging the way we play, which has no beginning and no end.
Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 1 2011, 11:11 PM
Yet we're still top of the league, with all these injuries. I wouldn't say Napoli have exactly got a bye tomorrow either.
After years of disappointment I'd take us playing badly and winning the Scudetto, than playing amazingly but coming short - again.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 1 2011, 11:15 PM
Let's see how it ends first. The league doesn't end tomorrow. If we keep playing like this, we can forget about winning.
Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 2 2011, 12:39 AM
Well done, Lazio, on sending two Milan players to the hospital.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 01:51 AM
Overstatement. I tell you this: playing like crap and winning still ending up without a defeat (4 W, 2 D) is scudetto-winning material.
Pirlo misses mostly, he's the brain of our team, he gives us the rythm.
I don't think Boateng is that important, at least not to your own standards; you obviously think Ambro and Rino are not, so I'll add up Boateng. Milan also lacks Seedorf, the one who used to play, integrate and work for Milan - the one that's sadly (for the most part) gone.
Where's the cool head you usually have. You are really turning into a drama queen
Tonight's performance wasn't horrific at all, Milan was dominant but couldn't capitalize their advantage. Lazio played dirty. Milan needed just a bit more luck. The two posts by Ibrahimovic, the referee, the blatant chance missing by Emanuelson and Flamini. And the fact that Milan, like I always thought, lacks a proper striker backup. Nevermind Robinho or Cassano, Milan needs a classic striker, a Lucarelli type, who could have been dragged in the game and maybe make a difference.
What does that mean? I don't have such a low opinion on him, I think we're being way too harsh on him tbh.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 02:30 AM
You know what annoys me? People being overprotective of this team simply because we're first. Well, I've got some news for you gentlemen. You cannot maintain leadership if you don't add continuity to your game. And we're not doing that. We had a magic spark around November and December that allowed us to play some really good football, dominate the opponents and win games easily. We've lost that spark. The leitmotif of our game lately has been long balls and counterattacks. We can't organize our ideas. We lack quality and movement in midfield and attack. We don't show the proper resolve and motivation to win games. This has led to sterile and ugly performances.
It's owing to enjoy yourself when your team is first in the standings, but it's also owing to be critical when it's necessary.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 02:42 AM
It's owing to enjoy yourself when your team is first in the standings, but it's also owing to be critical when it's necessary.
Yes, I do agree with you. But this really is due to our injury-crisis. Look, it's not only the "crucial" players that are missing. Milan needs a break from rotation, we need to catch up 2 or 3 matches in a row with the same line-up. When did that last happen? You speak of continuity - how can there be any continuity when week after week Milan fields a different line-up? I'm not overprotective, and the first place now means pretty much nothing with Inter coming and Napoli and Roma still holding on. But we gotta try hold on as long as we can till Andrea is back, and till we turn Milan back into a well-balanced team and not a E.R.
Posted by: Dracoris Feb 2 2011, 02:56 AM
Kozak = dirt bag.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 03:07 AM
Yes, you're right about that. Maybe it's just a bad moment that will eventually fade away when Pirlo and co. get back. Let's hope so.
Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 2 2011, 03:38 AM
It's owing to enjoy yourself when your team is first in the standings, but it's also owing to be critical when it's necessary.
That comment about what annoys you is a bit weird because I could easily say "Ok, you know what annoys me? People with short-memories, because we're first, then jumping at people for protecting the team a little".
The reason I'm not getting frustrated at the club or the team is because we are top at the moment, and have been for a long period of time. Now this isn't a Milan team that's used to that (in recent times), we haven't won the league since 03/04. That's a lengthy time for any major club, let alone one as historically and recently successful as AC Milan. It's not like we were majorly challenging for the title in reality the last few years, it's more of a shock that we are #1 in the standings than it would have been if we weren't.
Yet it seems as we are now at the top of the Italian game there are a few who seem to have forgotten where we were, now I'm not talking 4/5 years ago, I'm talking last year. A club fading, looking drastically like it was about to go and turn into the Italian equivalent of Liverpool. Just look at the shambles at OT, compared to what we did there on a number of occasions a few seasons back (when United arguably had a far superior team). Thankfully due to a few good signings we have made an impression in the league and in Europe.
Now lets be frank here, we aren't Barca, we might be astonishingly good going forward, as good as anyone. Though the balance of our team isn't there, not even when everyone is fully-fit. I'm sorry but our defence is not upto scratch and we don't have a #1 who we can rely on like nearly all of the major clubs out there. The midfield is nowhere near the level it should be, certainly in the centre, we don't have Xavi or Alonso, Pirlo is not upto the standard of these guys anymore. We constantly struggle against pace and width, a reason why I'm not sure we will completely walk over Spurs in the CL.
I personally think we are overachieving, and think it's more of a case of teams having done badly this season, in particular Inter than us doing exceptionally well. I'm not a Mourinho lover, but I genuinely believe if he was still in charge we would not be the top of the pile now. Should we really expect to be, with our squad? I don't think so.
Lets look at recent clubs winning, the World Cup was won by a Spanish side who never played that great. Sure they did enough, but did they set the world alight like Germany did in a couple of game? No, of course they didn't but Spain did enough during the course of the tournament and ultimately it was them who went away with the winners medals. The CL last year? Inter didn't always play great especially away from home, but again they did enough.
That's the point, I just want Milan to do enough to win. The main thing is to win the Scudetto in my mind, playing rubbish or not. It's been way too long without one and I think it's more important to win it badly than to lose it well. Once we have another Scudetto back under our belts then we can think about playing attractive, brilliant football every week.
Therefore, jumping at throats of players and the team, especially in a time of so many injuries, sitting top of the pile and after a 0-0 seems a bit premature to me given our recent history.
Posted by: Panama Devil Feb 2 2011, 04:42 AM
My respects to Yepes...
Brilliant display!!!
Posted by: acid911 Feb 2 2011, 04:43 AM
The reason I'm not getting frustrated at the club or the team is because we are top at the moment, and have been for a long period of time. Now this isn't a Milan team that's used to that (in recent times), we haven't won the league since 03/04. That's a lengthy time for any major club, let alone one as historically and recently successful as AC Milan. It's not like we were majorly challenging for the title in reality the last few years, it's more of a shock that we are #1 in the standings than it would have been if we weren't.
Yet it seems as we are now at the top of the Italian game there are a few who seem to have forgotten where we were, now I'm not talking 4/5 years ago, I'm talking last year. A club fading, looking drastically like it was about to go and turn into the Italian equivalent of Liverpool. Just look at the shambles at OT, compared to what we did there on a number of occasions a few seasons back (when United arguably had a far superior team). Thankfully due to a few good signings we have made an impression in the league and in Europe.
Now lets be frank here, we aren't Barca, we might be astonishingly good going forward, as good as anyone. Though the balance of our team isn't there, not even when everyone is fully-fit. I'm sorry but our defence is not upto scratch and we don't have a #1 who we can rely on like nearly all of the major clubs out there. The midfield is nowhere near the level it should be, certainly in the centre, we don't have Xavi or Alonso, Pirlo is not upto the standard of these guys anymore. We constantly struggle against pace and width, a reason why I'm not sure we will completely walk over Spurs in the CL.
I personally think we are overachieving, and think it's more of a case of teams having done badly this season, in particular Inter than us doing exceptionally well. I'm not a Mourinho lover, but I genuinely believe if he was still in charge we would not be the top of the pile now. Should we really expect to be, with our squad? I don't think so.
Lets look at recent clubs winning, the World Cup was won by a Spanish side who never played that great. Sure they did enough, but did they set the world alight like Germany did in a couple of game? No, of course they didn't but Spain did enough during the course of the tournament and ultimately it was them who went away with the winners medals. The CL last year? Inter didn't always play great especially away from home, but again they did enough.
That's the point, I just want Milan to do enough to win. The main thing is to win the Scudetto in my mind, playing rubbish or not. It's been way too long without one and I think it's more important to win it badly than to lose it well. Once we have another Scudetto back under our belts then we can think about playing attractive, brilliant football every week.
Therefore, jumping at throats of players and the team, especially in a time of so many injuries, sitting top of the pile and after a 0-0 seems a bit premature to me given our recent history.
Totally agreed, Acid, bro!
Gee, my long post routine is finally catching up. 
Jokes aside, well said, mate.
Posted by: Zed.D Feb 2 2011, 09:00 AM
The reason I'm not getting frustrated at the club or the team is because we are top at the moment, and have been for a long period of time. Now this isn't a Milan team that's used to that (in recent times), we haven't won the league since 03/04. That's a lengthy time for any major club, let alone one as historically and recently successful as AC Milan. It's not like we were majorly challenging for the title in reality the last few years, it's more of a shock that we are #1 in the standings than it would have been if we weren't.
Yet it seems as we are now at the top of the Italian game there are a few who seem to have forgotten where we were, now I'm not talking 4/5 years ago, I'm talking last year. A club fading, looking drastically like it was about to go and turn into the Italian equivalent of Liverpool. Just look at the shambles at OT, compared to what we did there on a number of occasions a few seasons back (when United arguably had a far superior team). Thankfully due to a few good signings we have made an impression in the league and in Europe.
Now lets be frank here, we aren't Barca, we might be astonishingly good going forward, as good as anyone. Though the balance of our team isn't there, not even when everyone is fully-fit. I'm sorry but our defence is not upto scratch and we don't have a #1 who we can rely on like nearly all of the major clubs out there. The midfield is nowhere near the level it should be, certainly in the centre, we don't have Xavi or Alonso, Pirlo is not upto the standard of these guys anymore. We constantly struggle against pace and width, a reason why I'm not sure we will completely walk over Spurs in the CL.
I personally think we are overachieving, and think it's more of a case of teams having done badly this season, in particular Inter than us doing exceptionally well. I'm not a Mourinho lover, but I genuinely believe if he was still in charge we would not be the top of the pile now. Should we really expect to be, with our squad? I don't think so.
Lets look at recent clubs winning, the World Cup was won by a Spanish side who never played that great. Sure they did enough, but did they set the world alight like Germany did in a couple of game? No, of course they didn't but Spain did enough during the course of the tournament and ultimately it was them who went away with the winners medals. The CL last year? Inter didn't always play great especially away from home, but again they did enough.
That's the point, I just want Milan to do enough to win. The main thing is to win the Scudetto in my mind, playing rubbish or not. It's been way too long without one and I think it's more important to win it badly than to lose it well. Once we have another Scudetto back under our belts then we can think about playing attractive, brilliant football every week.
Therefore, jumping at throats of players and the team, especially in a time of so many injuries, sitting top of the pile and after a 0-0 seems a bit premature to me given our recent history.
While I completely agree, I hope in the end it's us who wins the Scudetto. X-Off has a point, if we keep playing like this we will soon be overtaken by Inter again. I don't want to be witnessing the day Leonardo's Inter steals the title from right under our noses. it'd be too much to take.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 2 2011, 09:44 AM
Well done, Lazio, on sending two Milan players to the hospital.This. Lazio came to play dirty, and I'm mostly p!ssed off that we couldn't punish them for it, especially when we had all those chances in the 2nd half
The reason I'm not getting frustrated at the club or the team is because we are top at the moment, and have been for a long period of time. Now this isn't a Milan team that's used to that (in recent times), we haven't won the league since 03/04. That's a lengthy time for any major club, let alone one as historically and recently successful as AC Milan. It's not like we were majorly challenging for the title in reality the last few years, it's more of a shock that we are #1 in the standings than it would have been if we weren't.
Yet it seems as we are now at the top of the Italian game there are a few who seem to have forgotten where we were, now I'm not talking 4/5 years ago, I'm talking last year. A club fading, looking drastically like it was about to go and turn into the Italian equivalent of Liverpool. Just look at the shambles at OT, compared to what we did there on a number of occasions a few seasons back (when United arguably had a far superior team). Thankfully due to a few good signings we have made an impression in the league and in Europe.
Now lets be frank here, we aren't Barca, we might be astonishingly good going forward, as good as anyone. Though the balance of our team isn't there, not even when everyone is fully-fit. I'm sorry but our defence is not upto scratch and we don't have a #1 who we can rely on like nearly all of the major clubs out there. The midfield is nowhere near the level it should be, certainly in the centre, we don't have Xavi or Alonso, Pirlo is not upto the standard of these guys anymore. We constantly struggle against pace and width, a reason why I'm not sure we will completely walk over Spurs in the CL.
I personally think we are overachieving, and think it's more of a case of teams having done badly this season, in particular Inter than us doing exceptionally well. I'm not a Mourinho lover, but I genuinely believe if he was still in charge we would not be the top of the pile now. Should we really expect to be, with our squad? I don't think so.
Lets look at recent clubs winning, the World Cup was won by a Spanish side who never played that great. Sure they did enough, but did they set the world alight like Germany did in a couple of game? No, of course they didn't but Spain did enough during the course of the tournament and ultimately it was them who went away with the winners medals. The CL last year? Inter didn't always play great especially away from home, but again they did enough.
That's the point, I just want Milan to do enough to win. The main thing is to win the Scudetto in my mind, playing rubbish or not. It's been way too long without one and I think it's more important to win it badly than to lose it well. Once we have another Scudetto back under our belts then we can think about playing attractive, brilliant football every week.
Therefore, jumping at throats of players and the team, especially in a time of so many injuries, sitting top of the pile and after a 0-0 seems a bit premature to me given our recent history.
Great post. But like x-off said if we keep playing like this then we won't be at the top of the pile for long. Sure it's just a draw, ut with teams so close to us and Inter back in the mix a draw is just plain worrying, simply because atm, we cannot afford to draw.
Posted by: acid911 Feb 2 2011, 10:04 AM
Yup, particularly when we have had more than our fair share of draws in the last couple of months.
I can say at least two of these could/should/would have resulted in wins with the right approach or amount of luck. A draw for a team that is first in the league is literally a defeat - in the sense that it is an open invitation for other teams that we are open, come get our place.Fingers crossed we get Pirlo back, and very soon at that.
There is a disturbing lack of creativity in the team!
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 11:11 AM
Let's get back to one detail: Emanuelson had two great chances, and not that he only missed the target, his shot technique resembled the technique of a 80's defender. Was it just pressure that got to him, or?
Posted by: dst Feb 2 2011, 12:03 PM
can somebody give me any ratings or a short review because I did not see the game. I watched the highlights and it looked like we dominated.
PS For once Robinho shot on target and there was someone there to block it...
or what, is he an 80's defender?
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 12:50 PM
Haha...or what's up with Emanuelson?
Anyway, here are my short ratings:
Abbiati (6.5) - almost nothing to do all match long
Yepes (7) - very good performance, even if he made some unneccesary fouls that could have costed us
Bonera (6.5) - not as bad as usually, pretty solid in fact
Antonini (6.5) - a good first half with many offensive incursions, but went out of strenght and pace in the end
Oddo (6.5) - solid in defense as well as in offesne; if only his crossing was a bit more precise
Flamini (6.5) - very good first half, with one chance that should have been scored. Went MIA afterwards.
Emanuelson (6) - much work and some good passes, but the two chances he missed by some distance costed us
Thiago Silva (7) - turning into Desailly; it would be a pleasure to watch him along with Pirlo and the Real Seedorf
Robinho (7) - worked much and wanted to create which in the end was better then his usual miss-parade
Pato (6) - only a few glimpses tell you he's a special player, but other then that, totally MIA
Ibrahimovc (7) - as usual he was the one to score, but luck turned this time
-------------------
Legrottaglie (6.5) - looked very solid against the defensive-oriented halfhearted Lazio attacks
Cassano (6) - did little to change the outcome in the end
Sokratis (-)
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 01:35 PM
You're being too general in your arguments. True, being first for so many weeks after such a long time has been a pleasure, but why I'm criticizing our moment is because I'm afraid to lose that said leadership. We've been playing badly lately, or rather, we've lost an identity we had achieved a couple of months ago. Like Fillippo said, it could be due to the many injuries which hasn't permitted Allegri to field a stable starting-11 for more than a game. But we also haven't showed a certain determination that could have helped us win games like Lecce and Lazio. We can't afford to drop points against beatable opponents, otherwise next thing we know, Inter and Napoli will have surpassed us.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 04:52 PM
Guys, guys, relax. We actually won the match!
That was after Ibra hit the post twice.
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 2 2011, 06:33 PM
The ref was ridiculous all game
He's Interista (according to milan news he said that himself in an article from 2002 when he was Serie C).
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 06:42 PM
Honestly, I don't think the referee had any influence on the final result. Maybe he could have booked Kozak a bit earlier, but other than that...
Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 2 2011, 06:48 PM
That's the only complain I have. He let that moron injure two of our players. Kozak had like 4 elbows in this game without booking or anything.
Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 2 2011, 07:45 PM
What does MIA stand for?
Posted by: han2503 Feb 2 2011, 07:52 PM
Missing In Action
Kozak could have been sent off by the 30th minute with 2 blatant elbows. The ref was right in front of the action both times and saw him clearly, especially with the Bonera incident. That right there would have altered how Lazio played and could have changed the game.
Not to mention all the 50/50 calls he kept giving to Lazio. I've never really complained about a ref this season, but yesterday was just plain ridiculous
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 08:18 PM
Even if Kozak was sent off, nothing would have changed. Lazio didn't create a single scoring opportunity in the second half. They were just mass defending, like a provincial club.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 08:32 PM
I don't know where to put this, so I'll post it here. Sportmediaset reports that Pirlo should be back for the match against Parma, which is the next weekend. Also, no forecasting about Boateng's recovery, but he's getting better.
Posted by: samira Feb 2 2011, 08:59 PM
Actually Kozak sent two rossoneri players to the hospital.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 10:31 PM
Well, you never actually know what a red card can diffuse. I remember the Euro 2000, when Yugoslavia went down a man against Slovenia (it was Mihajlovic I think) which in the end resulted the Yugos coming back from a 0-3 deficit.
You have also other examples in which you see a defensive strategy collapse after such a thing. So you really cannot say.
But without a man Milan at least would have had more space and maybe Cassano would have more influence on the game-flow.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 2 2011, 10:59 PM
You can neve be sure with these things. Like Filippo said, losing a man would have forced them to change strategy.
Well thankfully we will be gtting more players back this weekend so great news on that front and all the results today went our way. Inter will win tomorrow no doubt, Bari are just horrible and with their game in hand they're proving to be our only competition. And tbh, I'm starting to worry especially if we lose anymore points in the next couple of weeks
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 11:09 PM
Anyway...
We should get Gattuso, Van Bommel and Seedorf back for Genoa. I'm thinking of a Gattuso-Van Bommel-Flamini-Seedorf midfield, with Thiago back to defensive duties and Robinho-Ibrahimovic up front. I know, you'll say something like "Seedorf instead of Pato??? Are you crazy???". But the truth is, we need someone to organize our game, and Seedorf is the only option available until Pirlo gets back. So, yeah, I'd try that line-up.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 11:36 PM
I'm with you, I'd give Seedorf this shot. Better now then later when the stakes will be higher.
Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 3 2011, 06:11 AM
Seedorf needs some match practise before the CL. Time to show VdV what a real Dutch maestro plays like.
It is the CL night coming up soon. Pippo and Seedorf would already be starting to shapeshift into wolves. Except well..Pippo would a lame, sad, lonely wolf coz he can't play.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 09:23 AM
We play against Tottenham on February 15. Inzaghi, Zambrotta and Ambrosini are the certain ones that won't make it. They all should recover around March. Let's remain hopeful about Nesta and Boateng. The rest should be available, unless they get injured again until then. 
Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 3 2011, 09:43 AM
Spurs have quite a few injury concerns themselves, mainly in their central defence. Could be one high-scoring tie.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 3 2011, 10:54 AM
What worries me is their wingers against our FBs....
@ x-off, I'd like to see Seedorf in the CM position instead of one of the DMs. Rino, Flamini and VB all in the same midfield, now that's ugly...
I'd give Pato and Ibra another run out, they need to learn how to play together. Cassano playing behind them for me. Robinho has been playing non stop for weeks now, he could use a rest, while Cassano would be better at supporting them imo, even if you say otherwise
Posted by: Woorya Feb 3 2011, 11:11 AM
@ x-off, I'd like to see Seedorf in the CM position instead of one of the DMs. Rino, Flamini and VB all in the same midfield, now that's ugly...
I'd give Pato and Ibra another run out, they need to learn how to play together. Cassano playing behind them for me. Robinho has been playing non stop for weeks now, he could use a rest, while Cassano would be better at supporting them imo, even if you say otherwise
Cassano can't play in CL
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 11:17 AM
I think he was referring to the match against Genoa. As for our midfield, Van Bommel in front of the defense would be ideal. Unlike our other DMs, he has vision and good passing skills. Gattuso on the right, Flamini on the left and Seedorf behind the strikers.
Posted by: acid911 Feb 3 2011, 11:18 AM
Yeah, that's one of the biggest mysteries of this season. Half the people say he can, half say he can't. The pathetic organization that is UEFA should have issued an official statement on the status of Cassano and his eligibility in the Champions League.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 11:20 AM
Half the people say he can, half say he can't. The pathetic organization that is UEFA should have issued an official statement on the status of Cassano and his eligibility in the Champions League.Half the people who say he can must get their facts straight.
Posted by: acid911 Feb 3 2011, 11:23 AM
True. 
The confusion probably arose from the recent law change that the powers-be at UEFA implemented from this season. In any case, I'd be happy with a quarters or semifinal appearance in the CL this year, along with the Scudetto of course. The Italian Cup is a nice extra if we get it.
Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 3 2011, 11:27 AM
Hmm....
Interesting..but I'd play something like...
Abate---Yepes---Silva---Luca
-----Rino------------Ambro----
----Pirlo------------Robinho----
-----------Pato------------------
---------------------Ibra-------
I'd like Pato, Binho and Ibra to be the ones who keep interchanging positions and dropping deep. I don't know if the Duck can do it, but it's possible. Pirlo to play his free-ish mezzala role and our two DMs give us cover for the fullbacks.
It will be a change of plan, since we won't be playing with mid-field runners anymore. But I would keep that for the second leg, when we're at White Hart Lane. With their wing heavy formation, I think Tottenham is really vulnerable down the centre and with Binho, Pato and Ibra running at their defence it will be interesting.
And in Pirlo you have the person capable of making the through ball and the long pass.
Play a more subdued 4-4-1-1 in the second leg. Hopefully Boateng will be back by then.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 11:43 AM
^ Ambro won't be back till the end of March.
Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 3 2011, 11:45 AM
Ahh. Mattie then.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 3 2011, 12:06 PM
Half the people say he can, half say he can't. The pathetic organization that is UEFA should have issued an official statement on the status of Cassano and his eligibility in the Champions League.Just remember Mascherano
Posted by: acid911 Feb 3 2011, 12:23 PM
Yup.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 3 2011, 12:34 PM
Referring to the match against Genoa in the second part of my post
No matter which way you put them, the combination of those 3 DMs together is a disaster waiting to happen if you ask me. Our problem have not be the strikers not clicking, it's been the midfield and the fact that they do not support or provide for the attackers. Non of our DMs can do that, you say VB can, so far he hasn't shown it, and personally I don't trust him yet. Seedorf in the midfield will help us retain possession and control the game which is what we've been lacking. Cassano can bring in Pato and Ibra into the game because he's our best passer in tight spaces, that's why imo he can play the AM role better then Robinho
Interesting..but I'd play something like...
Abate---Yepes---Silva---Luca
-----Rino------------Ambro----
----Pirlo------------Robinho----
-----------Pato------------------
---------------------Ibra-------
I'd like Pato, Binho and Ibra to be the ones who keep interchanging positions and dropping deep. I don't know if the Duck can do it, but it's possible. Pirlo to play his free-ish mezzala role and our two DMs give us cover for the fullbacks.
It will be a change of plan, since we won't be playing with mid-field runners anymore. But I would keep that for the second leg, when we're at White Hart Lane. With their wing heavy formation, I think Tottenham is really vulnerable down the centre and with Binho, Pato and Ibra running at their defence it will be interesting.
And in Pirlo you have the person capable of making the through ball and the long pass.
Play a more subdued 4-4-1-1 in the second leg. Hopefully Boateng will be back by then.
Rino and Ambro should never play both against a pacy team like Tottenham, they'll get creamed. Rino imo has been average all season, no matter what people say that he's back, clearly those people did not witness Rino during his best years. And Ambro has just been plain bad lately. Either way Flamini should be automatic choice at this point, even against Lazio he was one of our best performers imo and he was just returning from injury
Posted by: pacang Feb 3 2011, 12:40 PM
correct me if i'm wrong, but i think as per
http://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Download/Regulations/competitions/Regulations/01/48/42/49/1484249_DOWNLOAD.pdf
i think he can't play..
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 12:45 PM
No matter which way you put them, the combination of those 3 DMs together is a disaster waiting to happen if you ask me. Our problem have not be the strikers not clicking, it's been the midfield and the fact that they do not support or provide for the attackers. Non of our DMs can do that, you say VB can, so far he hasn't shown it, and personally I don't trust him yet. Seedorf in the midfield will help us retain possession and control the game which is what we've been lacking. Cassano can bring in Pato and Ibra into the game because he's our best passer in tight spaces, that's why imo he can play the AM role better then Robinho
I'm talking about Van Bommel on behalf of what we've already seen of him at Bayern and Netherlands. The guy is not just your average defensive midfielder. He can organize, make through passes, shoot from the distance. In other words, he's a sort of Pirlo replacement from a technical point of view, though they are miles away in terms of characteristics and skills.
My line-up against Tottenham, saving possible injuries, would be the following:
Abate - Nesta - T. Silva - Antonini
Flamini - Pirlo - Boateng
Seedorf/Robinho
Pato - Ibrahimovic
Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 3 2011, 12:47 PM
Milan vs Lazio - Locker room
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ClwnSWuC80
Posted by: han2503 Feb 3 2011, 01:07 PM
My line-up against Tottenham, saving possible injuries, would be the following:
Abate - Nesta - T. Silva - Antonini
Flamini - Pirlo - Boateng
Seedorf/Robinho
Pato - Ibrahimovic
I wouldn't play Seedorf. And I think we'll need a 2nd DM in that midfield, our FBs will need help against their wingers imo
As for Van Bommel, sure we've seen it at other teams, but we haven't at Milan, I haven't see one decent pass out of him that could be considered as defense splitting, he doesn't have the distribution technique of Seedorf let alone Pirlo, and that is what we need in that midfield. So imo this would be my midfield and attack for the Genoa game
Flamini--Seedorf
Cassano
Ibra--pato
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 01:14 PM
Flamini--Seedorf
Cassano
Ibra--pato
Personal opinion, but I would never play Seedorf along with three between Cassano, Pato, Robinho and Ibra.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 3 2011, 06:01 PM
Seedorf's best days in his entire career imo were playing the position I just put him in, in my eyes he was never a trquartista and never will be. Also imo It's not as unbalanced as it looks on Paper. Cassano tends to hang back a lot when we're not in possession, and he's not afraid to get his hands dirty in midfield when we need him to. Van Bommel and Flamini will be more then enough imo.
Imo 1 DM for us is not enough, 3 is overkill, but 2 is just right in terms of how balanced we are
Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 3 2011, 07:31 PM
Imo 1 DM for us is not enough, 3 is overkill, but 2 is just right in terms of how balanced we are
I agree with the former Seedorf not being a trequarista but nowadays I would play Seedorf only as AM and not at the position where he used to be his best. So I agree with X-Offender. Different times, different Seedorf. Didn't you yourself say that Seedorf played bad when being played as midfielder in our 3 man midfield, while as AM you thought he did well?
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 08:06 PM
Agreed. I can only see Seedorf as trequartista nowadays. In fact, he's the only proper trequartista we currently have.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 3 2011, 08:47 PM
I said that when he was played in Pirlo's position .ie. made to play in front of the defense.
He played decent in the AM psotion for a total of 3 games. And until we see him playing now in his old position I'm going to stand by my reasoning
Personally I don't really care where Seedorf plays, he's been pretty bad in any position... My biggest issue is with the 3 distructive DMs playing in the midfield
Posted by: mybloodhasblackstripes Feb 4 2011, 12:59 AM
personally i dont think seedorf has any place in the team now. boateng plays better in the midfield role and cassano is a better attacking support and can defend better.
i think for the genoa game cassanos style will be very effective. milan will come out fighting and if cassano gets the start i expect us to win well. granted theyre a good team but theve lost more at home than theyve won and allegri is an excellent motivational coach.
by the way im glad to be on milanfan
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 4 2011, 01:12 AM
Cassano... defend? OK.
Welcome, btw!
Posted by: dst Feb 4 2011, 01:17 AM
Cassano once went deep to defend... a couple of games later he was back up front working his magic... not really, he's not so slow... but he does look awfully slow at times.
and... welcome!!
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 4 2011, 02:12 AM
Think of Cassano as a replica of the current Ronaldinho. He must play in support of the deep-lying forward as an auxiliary striker. He lacks the mobility and physical attributes which would otherwise allow him to play as an attacking midfielder. That is because attacking midfielders have different roles. They serve as a link between midfield and attack, which requires mobility, speed and stamina. Cassano doesn't tick any of the said boxes. He's just a support striker with a great set of skills and vision.
Posted by: acid911 Feb 4 2011, 02:36 AM
The feeling is mutual, I am sure.
Welcome, glad to have you here. Cool(est) user name, by the way!
Posted by: Dracoris Feb 4 2011, 02:54 AM
Very cool username
Posted by: han2503 Feb 4 2011, 10:33 AM
Seedorf doesn't tick any of those either if you ask me. He barely moves aside from jogging around aimlessly, not the real movement required for a trequartista that is. Speed and Seedorf in the same sentence
. Stamina? He gets tired 15 minutes into it... Imo Cassano has better movement, is faster then Seedorf and can last longer then him as well, plus and most importantly imo he has better vision and can pass in tight spaces as well, which imo are 2 components that are just as important for an AM as the ones you mentioned above
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 4 2011, 12:22 PM
. Stamina? He gets tired 15 minutes into it... Imo Cassano has better movement, is faster then Seedorf and can last longer then him as well, plus and most importantly imo he has better vision and can pass in tight spaces as well, which imo are 2 components that are just as important for an AM as the ones you mentioned aboveSpeed and Seedorf in the same sentence? Duh, I didn't even mention Seedorf. That said, Seedorf is an attacking midfielder by nature. Cassano is not. Even when we play Robinho-Cassano-Ibrahimovic, he plays as second striker and not as trequartista. That should tell you something.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 4 2011, 02:15 PM
Well you implied it by saying Seedorf is the better option of the 2
Also Allegri likes to push Pato out wide every chance he gets, that should tell you something...
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 4 2011, 02:21 PM
Because he's a natural trequartista, unlike Cassano. It's easier for someone to play in a position he's familiar with compared to someone who's barely played there.
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 4 2011, 02:49 PM
You guys dominated with that Ronaldinho talk for what, half a year or so, and now it seems we have found a sequel. Great, just keep it coming.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 4 2011, 02:54 PM
Why thank you
Anyways, we'll watch Seedorf jogging around doing nothing but holding the team back this weekend and everyone will start hating on him again, problem solved
Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 4 2011, 02:57 PM
The real problem will pop-up if he actually does something good, right?
Posted by: acid911 Feb 4 2011, 03:23 PM
Quite true. Then we'll have to renew with him.
Posted by: X-Offender Feb 4 2011, 03:26 PM
Until the trequartista problem is solved for good, there will always be arguments about it.
Posted by: dst Feb 4 2011, 03:28 PM
this page has too many 's! ...
it looks like we're having heart attacks
Posted by: acid911 Feb 4 2011, 03:39 PM
Of course. We are talking about Seedorf, after all. There are going to be a few here and there.
Posted by: han2503 Feb 4 2011, 04:10 PM
The real problem will pop-up if he actually does something good, right?
Well I'll be happy to be proven wrong when it comes t Seedorf, but I think we won't bee seeing any magic coming from him anymore. And is it really being proven right when he has an aweful game but pops up with an assist or a goal? 's! ... it looks like we're having heart attacks
Do you always
wink at people when you're having a heart attack?
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