Milan seek to pick up pieces against Ajax

The loss was also a warning that after the goalless draw in Amsterdam two weeks ago, Milan can take nothing for granted despite the home advantage for Wednesday’s tie.

Earlier in the campaign, Carlo Ancelotti’s side put themselves among the favourites to challenge Real Madrid for the European title with some scintillating performances, including a sparkling victory over the holders.

Now those autumn evenings when Milan’s fluid passing and deadly finishing helped them to impressive wins at Deportivo Coruna and Bayern Munich feel like they belong to another age.

None of the midfield trio, so influential in those group phase victories, will face the Dutchmen — Andrea Pirlo and Dutchman Clarence Seedorf are both ruled out until the end of the season by injuries while Gennaro Gattuso is suspended.

Brazilian Rivaldo has suffered such a slump in form that despite the absentees he is still expected to start the game on the bench. “We have the big challenge of the season facing us. In the Champions League, against great sides, we haven’T failed yet when it has mattered. Ajax are a very good young side but we have to do it,” said striker Filippo Inzaghi.

Ancelotti has kept the team in their training camp since Saturday’s defeat as he seeks to restore the right spirit among the players.

Brazilian winger Serginho is doubtful after picking up a knock against Empoli and, should he not be fit to take his spot on the left flank, Georgian defender Kakha Kaladze, himself returning from an injury lay-off, could take over.

Captain Paolo Maldini, who is recovering from a broken nose, should play but wearing a protective mask.

Ajax also have injury problems with a 4-2 win over Roda JC Kerkrade on Saturday resulting in Rafael van der Vaart, Brazilian Maxwell and Finn Jari Litmanen being added to the injury list.

Koeman’s biggest worry for Wednesday is playmaker Van der Vaart, who suffered concussion. Thomas Galasek, Steven Pienaar, Hatem Trabelsi, Andre Bergdolmo all have knocks of varying degrees but joined Ajax’s last training session before their departure to Milan. (Reuters)