Rafael Leao: ‘Allegri knows how to help me’

Rafael Leao says Milan want to have a ‘strong start’ in an away game at Parma and thanks Massimiliano Allegri for his help ‘on and off the pitch.’

Milan visit Parma in Serie A Week 11 this evening. It kicks off at the Stadio Tardini at 19.45 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s four Serie A games on the Liveblog.

Rafael Leao’s interview before Parma vs. Milan

“It’s an important game for us, he we have the chance to win and get some points,” Leao told Sky Sport via Milannews.

“We want to start strong and score early because it’s never easy to play here.”

The Rossoneri have stepped up their ambitions this season after last week’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Roma, where Mike Maignan saved a Paulo Dybala penalty.

“I always try to help the team. I’m working a lot with the coach. He’s helping me, and I must thank him. He knows how to help me on and off the pitch,” continued Leao.

Leao: ‘Allegri knows how to manage young players’

“We talk a lot, about football and life in general. He has experience and knows how to handle us young players well. He’s such an important figure.”

That victory over Roma put Milan joint second with Inter and Roma, one point off leaders Napoli, so this is a promising opportunity for them to target the top spot.

Christian Pulisic is back on the bench after injury, along with Fikayo Tomori and Ardon Jashari, while Santiago Gimenez and Adrien Rabiot did not make the trip to Parma.

Pervis Estupinan returns to the starting XI for the first time since September 28.