Clarence Seedorf admits AC Milan need to treat their return date with Manchester United as a cup final.
Milan midfielder issues rallying cry ahead of crunch clash
Clarence Seedorf admits AC Milan need to treat their return date with Manchester United as a cup final.
The Serie A giants head to Old Trafford on Wednesday knowing their UEFA Champions League fate hangs in the balance.
A 3-2 defeat on home soil in the first leg of their last-16 encounter has left the Italians with a mountain to climb.
However, Seedorf, who has taken Europe's top prize with three different clubs, insists Milan are capable of turning the tie on its head and booking their place in the quarter-finals.
"If we are to win at Old Trafford and eliminate Manchester United, we will need to put in our best performance of the season," the experienced Dutchman told
skysports.com.
"For me, if we win, it would be one of the biggest moments in my career.
"Milan need to stamp their authority on Europe again and it is vital that we enter this match looking to re-establish our dominance.
Intense
"I have played in many matches where we have had to score, but over the last few days I have seen the determination building in this squad.
"This match will be very open and intense, but that is good. For us this game is like the Champions League final, in a historical stadium.
"Victories in this stadium are to be savoured and I hope we will have reason to celebrate once more."
Seedorf admits there would be no shame if Milan were to ultimately fail in their efforts to wipe out their first leg deficit, but insists everyone connected with the club is determined to make amends for their San Siro showing.
"To go out of the Champions League to a big rival would not be a disaster, but this squad have fought hard to go a long way in Europe," he added.
"There are now 90 minutes remaining and that could be a very long time for both sides on Wednesday."
