Abbiati: We are all behind Allegri

AC Milan star Christian Abbiati has backed under-fire coach Massimiliano Allegri ahead of the crucial derby against Inter on Sunday.

Milan have been struggling in Serie A this season and find themselves in 11th place after six games.

The 35-year-old year old goalkeeper made it clear the AC Milan squad are fully behind Allegri and reiterated that the coach is doing a great job.

“I have never had any problems with Allegri, but I can assure (you) that ever since he arrived at the club, then the players have always been with him,” Abbiati told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“Being Milan’s coach isn’t easy, but Allegri is handling the squad well. His age (45) allows him to have a great connection with the players.

“I would say that his relation with us is very similar to the relation that we had with Ancelotti. During the matches then he’s the one who’s in charge, but off the pitch he talks and makes jokes.

“I’m sorry that Allegri has been criticised so much lately. I hope that he will stay at least until his contract expires in 2014, and I hope to be here as long as well.”

Abbiati appealed to the fans for their support in Sunday’s derby.

“I want to see the stadium full of passionate people when we face Inter tomorrow,” he said.