Allegri commends Milan performance

AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri hailed his team for making a challenging 2-0 Serie A win over Atalanta look easy on Sunday.

A Zlatan Ibrahimovic penalty and Kevin-Prince Boateng’s 82nd-minute sealer were enough for the league leaders to maintain top spot.

Allegri praised his team for their performance against the promoted Atalanta, who are 13th but would be sitting higher if not for a six-point pre-season deduction.

“It was an entertaining and physical game. Atalanta could’ve caused us problems on the counter and that proved to be the case, but my lads adapted very well in midfield,” Allegri said after the win.

“The team fought hard and made a very difficult test seem simple. It was important to win coming back from the winter break and we achieved that.”

Despite reports suggesting Allegri’s relationship with forward Alexandre Pato had broken down, the Brazilian started before being substituted for countryman Robinho.

Allegri said he was pleased with the 22-year-old’s performance, and added his side were looking forward to the derby against Inter next Sunday.

“I am happy with Alexandre Pato’s performance, as he earned a penalty and created several chances, having also hit the woodwork,” he said.

“I like Kevin-Prince Boateng in midfield and began using him there when he first arrived. Next up is the derby with Inter and we hope to make it four wins in a row.”

The Italian coach was remaining tight-lipped about Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez, who is said to have agreed to personal terms with the Serie A champions.

“I am not accustomed to discussing players belonging to other teams. It is only normal to admire Tevez, as he is a champion anyone would like to train,” Allegri said.

“At the moment he is at Manchester City, so I’d have nothing to say to him.”