Maldini keeps Gila faithThursday 13 September, 2007Milan captain Paolo Maldini has joined teammate Daniele Bonera in offering his support for stuttering striker Alberto Gilardino.
Gilardino emerged as a prolific hitman after arriving at Parma from Verona. Between 2003 and 2005 he became a talismanic figure for the Crociati as he hit 23 goals in two consecutive campaigns.
His eye for goal netted him a move to Milan worth around £18m in July 2005, but since scoring 17 times in his first term at the San Siro, he has looked ill at ease in the Rossoner’s jersey.
After suffering jeering from the Diavolo faithful this season, Gila did find the net in a friendly against Dynamo Kiev.
Now he needs to come to life and Maldini has joined fellow stopper Bonera in tipping Alberto for a renaissance.
“We are all firmly behind him because he is a striker with unique characteristics,†he told Sky Sports Italia.
“He should relax in the knowledge that he has complete support from the whole team and the club’s staff.â€
Maldini also took time to compliment the signing of Brazilian starlet Alexandre Pato, who will arrive in Milan in January to challenge Gila for a place.
“He is a very important investment as he is one of the most talented players in Brazil,†the 39-year-old claimed.
“There may be a desire to bring in more players in January, but at the moment it’s tough to get top-class players from big sides.
"The secret to Milan’s success is encouraging growth from young players.â€
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