Marcos Cafu insists Milan will be ready for their Champions League qualifier against Red Star Belgrade despite their chaotic preparations for the tie.

Cafu is one of numerous players rushed back to pre-season training after the Calciopoli verdicts relegated them to third in last season’s standings and therefore forced them to qualify for the group stages of the European Cup.

Yet the Brazilian is optimistic ahead of Wednesday’s first leg clash at the Meazza even if he admits that he finds the club’s situation difficult to comprehend.

“We are ready for Wednesday’s match, we have been training and we hope we will be in an almost perfect shape for this very important event,” said the former Roma defender to Milan Channel.

“We know this is a crucial moment for the team, but we will face it with the right spirit,” added the World Cup player.

“We are angry as we have been forced to play this preliminary round because of the Calciopoli scandal.

“However, once we start the game I am sure we will leave that to one side and focus on the match.”

Although it is holiday season in Milan, the veteran has called on the Rossoneri faithful to play a decisive role during the first 90 minutes of the 2006-07 campaign.

“I know everyone is leaving for the seaside and the city is empty, but this is a very important match for our future in the Champions League,” he said. “I really hope the stadium will be packed.”

Cafu may not be part of the game, though, seeing as he is still struggling to find top form, yet another defender who will not be available for Coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The first leg of the third round preliminary is scheduled for August 9, kick-off at 20:45 local time, and the referee will be Jan Wegereef from Holland.

Football Italia

I wouldn't mind giving Cafu a new job, Milan's new therapist for moral support!

I always liked Cafu..always seemed to enjoy what he was doing...Milan have always signed good role models...kinda makes me worry bout Ibra

Personally I think that after Cafu retires he will work for Milan, most probably a scout, I think he has a great eye for talent

i think this anger is with every single player...hopefully it will drive us all the way to the finals

would be nice but he has said he wants to go finish his career in brasil

Hopefully they're prepared and everyones back and ready for this.

We didn't have enough time to know where we would be in all this.