Allegri: Pato nearing Milan comeback

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has hinted Alexandre Pato could return to action in the Serie A clash at home to Inter Milan in October.

Brazil international Pato sustained an adductor injury during pre-season and has yet to make his first official appearance of the 2012/13 campaign.

Nevertheless, Pato is set to re-join the first team after next week’s Champions League game against Zenit St Petersburg.

“Pato is working well and when we get back from St Petersburg, he’ll join up with the rest of the team,” Allegri said.

“I’ll then evaluate whether he’ll be available for the derby or not. I might ask him to play a couple of games with the youth team to build up his confidence.”

Milan are preparing for Saturday’s Serie A match away to Parma.