Milan still a strong team, insists Mazzarri

Nov 17, 2012 11:25:00 AM

The Partenopei trainer has warned his men about the Rossoneri still having a strong squad despite their league standing, but is confident his side can be successful on Saturday

Napoli boss Walter Mazzarri has stressed that AC Milan are still a force to be reckoned with ahead of the Serie A clash between the teams.

Massimiliano Allegri's men have struggled so far this season, leaving them 13th in the Italian league with a 12-point gap to third-placed Napoli, but the Partenopei coach is adamant the Rossoneri can always pose a threat to any team.

"Milan have had a whirlwind season so far," the 51-year-old told reporters at a press conference. "But they are still a strong team.

"When you are not having the best of times you still have to get up and go again - I think the visit of Milan's president today will help them do that.

"Whatever people may think, Milan have a better side than their standing suggests.

"They may be underdogs but that does not make me confident. Our success in the game depends on having the right attitude - if we do that, we can beat anyone."

The tactician then went on to reveal his intention of playing Lorenzo Insigne ahead of Goran Pandev, due to the Macedonian suffering from a muscle strain.

"I feel sorry for Pandev," he continued. "He would have loved to have played, but I am confident that Insigne can step up and replace him.

"The boy must play as he knows how, think about the team and remove any anxieties. If he harnesses the support of the fans then I'm sure he'll be fine."

Napoli are awaiting Milan on November 17, with the game is set to begin at 20.45 CET.

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