Mattia Caldara has admitted that he has been frustrated by not being able to play for AC Milan during his long injury lay-off.
Caldara made just two appearances for the Rossoneri last season after his arrival from Juventus in part of the deal which saw Leonardo Bonucci return to Turin.
He ruptured his knee ligaments towards the end of the season having missed a large chunk of it due to an Achilles problem, but is now back in training and is raring to go.
“I’m getting stronger and fitter; I’m back out training, jogging, sprinting and doing strengthening exercises,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Paolo Maldini has always had time for me, and we talk a lot. When we do, I feel that he trusts me. Having a legend like him around is a great boost for the club.
“I’ve missed playing for Milan and Italy a lot, Roberto Mancini only calls up players that deserve it and I want to prove that I deserve a place in his squad.”