AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli has said that Olivier Giroud and Brahim Diaz will both be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night in the Champions League.
Speaking during his press conference at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (via Milan News), the coach put fans’ concerns at ease as he confirmed that both Giroud and Diaz will be recovered in time for the game, also adding that Giroud will start the game despite flu concerns.
“Everyone is fine, including [Olivier] Giroud and [Brahim] Diaz. There are 24 of us all available, even Olivier to play from the start. Then I’ll make the choices,” he said.
He also added that the team have arrived in London feeling confident despite the fact that they were beaten by Fiorentina in their most recent match.
“We are feeling positive. We arrive with confidence, enthusiasm and determination,” the coach said.
Antonio Conte is back on the Tottenham touchline after recovering from his gall bladder surgery and Pioli did not play down the importance of the Italian coach’s presence.
“The coach’s presence is important, I speak from personal experience. Conte is an added value and from him we will find a very motivated opponent.”
Speaking about the game in Florence, Pioli said that he is expecting a different attitude from his players.
“This is a different story compared to Florence, but also compared to the first leg. I expect a different attitude from them,” Pioli explained.
What must Milan do tomorrow?
“Milan must approach the game well and go forward with consistency.”
How will Tottenham change from the first leg?
“Results don’t change tomorrow’s game. Both teams want to pass this round. Tottenham will probably try to attack more than at San Siro. They have important second-half stats. We have to be careful with the phases of play.”
How will a full stadium affect the game?
“We expect a firey stadium, as the San Siro was, but the goal is not scored by the crowd.”
What kind of game will it be?
“Tomorrow is a game of personality. Our opponents are fearsome offensively, they will play with great intensity and we must be prepared to control the game more. We have a very small advantage but we cannot think of managing it. We have to attack and play with intensity.”
