Defeat would be a disaster, says Allegri

AFP, Saturday 21 Apr 2012

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri says his side cannot afford to lose to Bologna on Sunday as they continue their pursuit of Juventus at the top of Serie A

Massimiliano Allegri
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri

The reigning champions are a point behind Juve with six games left as they host the top-flight strugglers at San Siro.

And while there would still be time to recover if they lost, Allegri is not even contemplating such a scenario.

Following last weekend's postponed fixtures, Milan have at least had 10 days' rest since their last game, as well as the chance to welcome back some injured players.

"It's been a long time since we've been able to train well and we've got some players back," said Allegri.

"The lads are fired up and tomorrow I hope we'll get three points playing well, because losing would be harmful and devastating.

"We need to win and hope Juve slip up. There are 18 points to play for and just one between us. Football is unpredictable; everything can happen."

Allegri is not ruling out the possibility of winning all six remaining games.

"We have to and we can. There were times when we won seven out of eight," he said.

"In any case, we're thinking about winning tomorrow and then sitting on top for a few hours while waiting to see what happens in Turin (where Juve will host Roma)."

However, Allegri has a word of warning for his troops ahead of the Bologna clash.

"Up front Bologna have good technique, they're fast and strong, while at the back they're organised," said the coach.

"They've achieved their aim of survival (although not mathematically) and so they will be even more serene as they have nothing to lose.

"We need to keep cool heads, more so than the last match, knowing that there are six games left and the next two weeks (in which five matches will be played) will be decisive.

"It will be two great weeks. We'll need to play with a lot of intensity and concentration."

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