Rad Krunic has stressed that AC Milan must play their own way against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night in the Champions League whilst also playing down comparisons with Franck Kessie.
Milan take a 1-0 lead to north London having emerged victorious at San Siro thanks to an early goal from Brahim Diaz, which leaves the difficult balancing act of deciding whether to go for the first goal or to try contain and counter.
Krunic missed the 2-1 defeat against Fiorentina on Saturday night due to a suspension but he is back and eligible to face off against Tottenham tomorrow night, with some sources even suggesting he could start in Brahim Diaz’s place if the Spaniard is not 100%.
The Bosnian spoke to the reporters who gathered in the media room at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to preview tomorrow night’s crucial second leg against Spurs, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
Krunic admitted that he views himself as being the joker of the team whilst also emphasising Milan’s need not to lose their own identity.
“I consider myself a true joker of this team. In my opinion being able to play multiple roles pleases the coach. We also have to face this match as champions of Italy, we deserved it. We are Milan and we must play as Milan,” he said.
Speaking specifically about how Milan must win the game tomorrow, Krunic said: “The match is always decided by the episodes. We must try to keep possession as much as possible.”
Milan concede few goals with you on the pitch
“We have prepared for the match well. We have a small advantage but we have to play our game, getting as much ball possession as possible, trying to control it as best we can. Each of us must give something in attack and defence.”
Do you like the label of the new Kessie?
“I don’t have much to do with Kessie, I have done my season together with Franck. We miss Franck and strong players like him, but I consider myself to be myself, but I am Rade and I can help this team in my way. You all know that I can play in different roles and I am ready.”
I have so much respect for Krunic. I hope he will stay for many years, perfect substitute for a team like Milan.
Gud squad player. More grease to ur elbow
You know what? I think I’ve finally grown up and seen the value of this guy.
When he was still new, I’m not going to lie, I used to froth at the mouth when I used to see him play. I would be angry that such a player can be a Milan player.
But through his hard work and Mister working on him. I can definitely respect this man and all he does.
I’m glad he’s sorta getting the respect from us fans now cause he’s been there for the whole journey despite the abuse from myself and many others.
Come on Rade!!! Stabilise that midfield tomorrow!
Nice to see more respect for Krunic 🙂
Go Krunic ✊🏼
Rade is the player we need but don’t deserve tbh. Kept his head down and won us all over. I’d be quite happy to see him start for either Isma or Brahim tonight. Long as he starts and puts in his usual shift we’re good!
Nice to see when fans show little bit of respect to those who are humble and realistic. This attitude is fresh and healthy in an Era where social media makes anyone seem more wise than they really are. In any case, the key battle is always the midfield. Unlock it and we find treasure lol.
Respect, yes. But as a substitute. The problem is that he plays more than everybody else. So he is not a substitute anymore.