Sheva wants to be a legend

Andrei Shevchenko is honoured to be compared to Milan legend Marco van Basten.

The Ukrainian international has proved to be a sensational signing for the Rossoneri since arriving from Dynamo Kiev five years ago.

His goals have helped propel Milan to a string of trophies, including last season's Serie A title.

He has started the new season in similar vein as his hat-trick enabled Milan to lift the Italian Super Cup at the expense of Lazio.

Shevchenko's performance on Saturday drew renewed comparisons to current Holland coach van Basten, who was part of a formidable Milan team in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

"It's very flattering to be compared to such a legend," Shevchenko told skysports.com.

"Marco is a crucial chapter in this club's history and for me it would be a dream to achieve what he achieved.

"I have five more years on my contract to see out at San Siro and I hope I have the chance to clinch this dream."

The explosive centre forward also admitted that crushing Lazio was the ideal preparation for the challenges that await Milan this term.

"Starting the season with such a positive result is the best we could do," he added.

"It's easier for us to play together as we are the same players as last season, plus the new signings of Hernan Crespo, Jaap Stam and Vikash Dhorasoo.

"To score a hat-trick is always exciting but I have to admit I owe it to my mates.

"When you play in a team like this, with a very offensive mentality, you get more chances to score.

"There are so many classy players to mark here that our opponents always leave space for us strikers."