Allegri calls for tighter defence

Massimiliano Allegri says AC Milan have to improve defensively if they are to have a chance of success in the 2012/13 Serie A campaign.

Milan were beaten 3-2 by Juventus in Sunday’s friendly Trofeo Berlusconi game, and Allegri was not impressed with his side’s performance at the back.

“I think we definitely conceded goals in the game tonight that could have been avoided if we can work a little better at the back. That is something we will have to do,” Allegri said.

“(Cristian) Zapata was new. Zapata and (Mario) Yepes had never played together before, so we most certainly need to improve.

“However, overall I am happy because the spirit of the team was good, which is what we will need for the season to come.”

Milan host promoted Sampdoria on Sunday in their Serie A opener.