Shevchenko praises Ancelotti

Shevchenko experienced some difficulties with the European champions last year, but the Ukrainian striker has put any troubles behind him.

Shevchenko told Italian daily Giorno: "It wasn't easy, after the troubles I had last year entering a team that was changing their game. Ancelotti has been fundamental.

"He is a person able to take responsibilities, who talks with everyone, who listens to everyone, but at the end he decides alone."

The gifted striker has been in excellent form for Milan this season, with the UEFA Champions League holders handily positioned in third place in Serie A.

Shevchenko also spoke of his affection for his homeland, claiming he will always be willing to represent his country.

"I'll never leave the Ukrainian national team, even if we don't win a lot. I'm really bounded to my people and my native land.

"I feel I must perform my job in the best possible way, not only for my club, but also for the Ukrainian people, because I know they see and listen to me. I am an example," he added.