Maldini lends Rivaldo support

Rivaldo failed to set the club alight last term after his arrival from Barcelona and spent long periods on the substitutes' bench.

He has also struggled with niggling injuries but Rossoneri captain Maldini is adamant the club's fans will see the true Rivaldo during the coming months.

"No-one could say that Rivaldo doesn't have qualities," said Maldini. "He had problems last year, had problems even this summer, physical problems, but now I see him better.

"He has the will to do and to show what he can do. This season he will play as he knows, I assure you."

Rivaldo's compatriot Kaka has joined Milan this summer and Maldini has been impressed by the precocious talent of the Samba starlet.

He added: "He's very talented. I think he is thin, physically. He's a good guy, very ambitious and with clear ideas."

Maldini lifted yet another piece of silverware on Friday evening as Milan defeated FC Porto in the European Super Cup.

The veteran defender feels the fact the club is steeped in tradition, allied to the vision of president Silvio Berlusconi, aids their quest for success.

"We have a giant tradition and this is a help," continued Maldini. "Then, since 1986, we have had a president who is very ambitious, who wants trophies and a good game."

The long-serving Rossoneri icon also admitted there is no magic formula behind his ability to consistently perform at the highest level, claiming it is purely down to his desire to give 100 percent.

"When a player plays, he does it to give his best, if not there is no sense in continuing. I try to do my best, that's all."