MN: Attitude, goals, rotation – three crucial keys to victory in Milan-Lecce

AC Milan will hope to follow up their win over Como in midweek by beating Lecce under the San Siro lights, but they will have to perform well.

As Massimiliano Allegri repeatedly emphasised in his pre-match press conference, no game in Serie A is a stroll in the park, and Milan should know that well having already dropped a lot of points against bottom-half teams. What do they need to do tonight? MilanNews pick out three keys.

Mentality

The Como game came 72 hours prior, but after the subsequent discussions about style of play versus results, it feels like a lot longer has passed. Allegri poured cold water on the controversy, reiterating that Milan is playing to achieve the objective that was clear from the start: the Champions League.

These clear ideas give hope that the team has remained sheltered from the outside noise, remaining focused on what the specific match against Lecce will require to take home the three points.

It will require a strong mindset and mentality, especially since we know how the Rossoneri perform against lesser sides. With Inter and Napoli having both won, it should provide an extra push.

Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

The right combination

The legitimate question before the match is this: who will be the attacking duo? For a few games now, between one ailment and another, Allegri has finally been able to rely on four forwards who, in effect, are alternating on the pitch.

Considering the closeness of the schedule and the imperfect physical condition of all four, for various reasons, it will be interesting to see who the coach will decide to start with. Much will also depend on how Lecce play, because a player like Füllkrug could be ideal against a low block.

What is certain is that since Christmas, in one way or another, all four forwards have almost never disappointed at the same time, or at least there is always one who manages to be decisive.

Rotation temptation

Rotation could also play a key role. In some cases it’s mandatory, while in others, it could be Allegri’s decision to rest some heavily-used players. It’s the midfield department that is usually affected, as in Florence.

The prime candidate for a spot on the bench is Luka Modric. Samuele Ricci and Jashari are ready to replace him, perhaps even playing together if Youssouf Fofana and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are also spared.

The former Torino and Club Brugge players will have to provide different responses than those seen a week ago at the Franchi. Alexis Saelemaekers could also be involved in the rotation as Zachary Athekame could have a chance from the start. The reserves must prove their worth.