Balotelli will rock Milan Derby - Allegri

AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri believes Mario Balotelli will rise above the hostile atmosphere in the Milan derby on Sunday night.



The Italian striker is set to go up against his former club Inter in the highly-anticipated Serie A derby this weekend, following his move from Manchester City in January.

Rossoneri boss Allegri knows Balotelli will receive an unwelcoming reception from the Inter fans but believes the 22-year-old will be able to cope with the pressure.

He told Milan Channel: "Mario knows exactly what kind of atmosphere awaits him. He will be targeted by our opponents.

"It will be a test of his maturity because he must concentrate only on his football and using his instincts."

Balotelli and Robinho going mental after Mialn's victory over Barcelona

Team News

Inter

Alvaro Pereira is suspended, and Stramaccioni rested Nagatomo for the Europa League match to be sure to have the Japanese international available here.

Kovacic and Kuzmanovic are already regular fixtures in the first XI, but Stramaccioni may need more experience for this type of match: Stankovic could be playmaker.

With Milito out, Palacio is safe to play up front, while Cassano and Guarin should play in support. Alvarez will drop to the bench.

Andrea Ranocchia is almost certainly out, with suspected knee ligament damage.



AC Milan

Allegri has only a few options in midfield, and will probably keep the trio that played against Barcelona.

Balotelli will replace Pazzini up front, while Niang or Bojan may give Boateng some rest, unless the international from Ghana is used in midfield instead.

The defence could see just one change from the Champions League clash, with De Sciglio coming in for one of the two full-backs.






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