Amorim explains selection decisions including ‘strange’ Pavlovic absence in ‘crucial’ game

By: Oliver Fisher

AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has admitted that the match against Ferencvaros is ‘crucial’, but rotation was necessary.

With only three points on the board and five games left in the league phase, there is no more margin for error if Milan are to get themselves up the table towards top eight spots, which would secure automatic qualification for the last-16 and avoid a two-legged play-off.

However, they face an opponent that have been in fine form, winning all three Europa League games so far, scoring nine and conceding only three. Their unbeaten run across all competitions has now stretched to 20 games, so they will be a tough proposition in front of 5,000 travelling fans.

Amorim spoke to Sky not long before the start of the game at San Siro, discussing his selections and the magnitude of the night in the Europa League context. His words are via MilanNews.

Can the post-derby enthusiasm boost the team?

“The feeling is positive. It’s important to work on the mental side. But then what matters is the next match: tonight is crucial for us. We have some players unavailable, but to be competitive in all competitions we have to show that all our players can perform. Tonight, there are three important points up for grabs.”

Rabiot is the captain tonight…

“It’s important. Mike isn’t there tonight, nor is Modric. We need his experience in case something bad happens. We need someone on the pitch who can provide security. Rotation is important to keep everyone fit, but it’s not rotation because it’s Ferencvaros we are playing. We want to win tonight.”

You have chosen to play Diawara alongside De Winter…

“It’s strange to start without Pavlovic. He and De Winter usually play together. It’s strange to start without him. But Diawara has shown he’s up to the task, both as a centre-back and wider. Koni is there to help him, even though Diawara doesn’t need anyone’s help.”

CR7 announced his retirement from the national team…

“It wasn’t the best way to end his national team career, but what he did for our country is clear for all to see. Everyone knows him around the world. Football is a window, many know Portugal because of CR7. He played with so many important players. He will give something to our country off the pitch too.”