AC Milan v Marseille preview

Group C showdown will be vital in race to qualify

Last updated: 25th November 2009  

AC Milan v Marseille preview

Leonardo: Attacking instincts

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AC Milan can secure UEFA Champions League progress with victory over Marseille, but the French side remain strong contenders for a place in the knockout phase.

Leonardo's side currently top the Group C standings but hold just a one-point advantage over their opponents, who are third in the rankings with two games remaining.

The Italian outfit's 2-1 victory at the Stade Velodrome gives them an important advantage over Didier Deschamp's troops, with head-to-head records deciding who will progress if teams finish level on points.

Marseille found their scoring form with a 6-1 thrashing of FC Zurich last time out and Deschamps is eager to exploit what he perceives to be weaknesses in Milan's defence.

The former Chelsea midfielder said: "We have to pay attention and take advantage of spaces they leave.

"If I had to compare the Milan we faced in September and Real Madrid, I'd say Milan were the better team, but I don't think Milan are playing that well anymore even if they are more dangerous up front."

Calculated risk

Opposite number Leonardo accepts that his defence is put under increased pressure because of his approach to the game, but has no plans to adopt more measured tactics.

He admitted: "People say we take too many risks and it's true; but this team is built to attack. It is a calculated risk. We like to attack so it is almost inevitable we concede more than we should."

Milan have fitness concerns over key midfielders Gennaro Gattuso (thigh) and Mathieu Flamini (ankle), while Marco Borriello (knee) is another doubt.

Oguchi Onyewu, Marek Jankulovski and Davide Di Gennaro will not feature as they all remain on the treatment table.

Deschamps will be hoping Stephane Mbia overcomes his ankle problem in time to feature, while Cyril Rool (knee) is doubtful and Julien Rodriguez (ankle) is certain to miss out.

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