Allegri backs El Shaarawy to hit back

Massimiliano Allegri has assured Stephan El Shaarawy the goals will flow while defending his own position as AC Milan’s head coach.

Allegri insisted calls for his sacking with the club languishing in seventh place had not bothered him and lent his support to El Shaarawy – who leaped to the top of Serie A’s scoring charts with 14 goals in the first 17 games but has not scored in the club’s past three league games.

“Stephan El Shaarawy is still young, and must not become obsessed with not scoring of late,” Allegri said.

“The club have chosen to focus on youth, with the support of an established player like Kaka amongst them.”

Allegri has overseen a revival at the club with seven wins in their past 11 games and says he enjoys a good relationship with president Silvio Berlusconi.

“At the same time, I have a contract with Milan, all the rest is just speculation,” he said.

“I enjoy a great rapport with (president) Silvio Berlusconi, so I am certain of my place in this team.

“I am only concentrated on Milan.”

AC Milan face Bologna on Sunday as they continue their push for a place in next season’s Champions League.