Shevchenko praises Milan’s start but outlines what they need to become ‘complete’

Andriy Shevchenko believes that AC Milan are on the right track under Massimiliano Allegri, but they could use a better striker.

Shevchenko is someone who knows what it takes to win at Milan. During his two spells with the club (1999-2006, 2008-2009), he won five trophies including the UEFA Champions League in 2003, scoring the winning penalty in the final. He also lifted the 2004 Ballon d’Or after a stellar campaign.

The Ukrainian is the second-top all-time goalscorer for the Rossoneri with 175 goals in 322 appearances, and he leads the Derby della Madonnina for goals scored too having scored against Inter 14 times.

Sheva on Allegri, Leao, Modric and more

Shevchenko gave an interview to this morning’s edition of Tuttosport and he was asked a few questions about how his former club are doing this season. His words are via TMW.

Do you like this Milan side?

“I like the enthusiasm inside Milan. The players have embraced the ideas and structure Max brought. I never worked with him, but I know him and I rate him highly. Allegri has an impressive career, with a style you like or you dislike, he has still managed to pull the whole group to his side and results follow.

“The squad fits his style of football. There are strong and experienced players like Modric, Rabiot, Maignan, Leao, Pulisic. The energy shows the squad is present.

“You cannot say they’re Scudetto favourites, it’s too early, but Milan are in there and the moment is good. The absence of European matches gives an advantage in preparation and energy.”

Would Leao have played in the great Milan sides you were in?

“Yes. I do not know if as a starter, but he would have had space because he is a forward with unique traits. Best position? Leao is not a pure striker, he is a wide player.

“If you keep the block lower, so you use his best traits and free his runs, Rafa has the quality to do it well, because when he has space ahead he burns everyone with his speed. It is different when space closes.

“Max is trying him there now, we will see. Results are positive now, Leao is scoring and learning a new role. It will not always be simple. As a striker you need to strike in every situation.”

Do Milan need a Shevchenko-style player against low-block sides?

“Or a Pippo Inzaghi, or a Hernan Crespo. When you have to attack and play in the mud up front, in tight spaces, you need real strikers who need one second to beat opponents to the ball. Maybe yes, to be complete Milan would need such a striker.

“But this league has no master, it is open with good matches, with surprising teams like Como. I watched some of their highlights, they are having an excellent season.”

What are your thoughts on Luka modric?

“Modric does not need comparisons. He is a top player who came to Milan with strong desire. He still has a lot to give and it is good to see a champion like him work like that.”

And on the San Siro news?

“It is right to build a new stadium if the new stadium respects the past and carries the history of San Siro. It must not become something completely different.”