Rodriguez: “AC Milan put in a performance full of sacrifice”

By Oliver Fisher -

AC Milan defender Ricardo Rodriguez heaped praise upon the spirit of his team-mates after Sunday’s win over Cagliari.

Milan retook fourth spot in the Serie A standings with a commanding 3-0 win over Cagliari at San Siro.

A piece of misfortune for Luca Ceppitelli gave Gennaro Gattuso’s side an early advantage, before Lucas Paqueta’s first goal in a Milan shirt sparked emotional scenes.

Krzysztof Piatek made it four goals in four competitive games for the Diavolo, putting the game to bed midway through the second-half, and a couple of superb saved from Gianluigi Donnarumma secured a just about perfect night.

“We must continue on this journey. All of the lads deserve credit for this result,” he told reporters in the mixed zone.

“They did well to make themselves available and put in a performance full of sacrifice. During our last five matches, we’ve got back to playing good football. We didn’t risk anything at 3-0.”

Gianluigi Donnarumma has now kept six clean sheets in his last nine competitive games, and has seven for the season in Serie A alone.

“He’s a great goalkeeper, and he manages to make the difference when the few times that he’s called into action.

“He is proving himself to be one of the best in the world. He’s also lucky to have joined up with Reina, who doesn’t just think for himself but also helps with his experience. Gigio is no longer a young lad, he’s grown.”

On Calhanoglu: “He could’ve scored and lifted this burden. Finally, I saw him shoot on two or three occasions like he knows how.

“He can give more on a qualitative level, but he’s a player that gives up a lot for the team.”

The Swiss international also discussed the performances of his fellow defenders.

“Calabria is full of passion, but he’s grown a lot mentally. Musacchio? He’s a reliable player, while he’s also technical and knows how to play football. I’m very pleased.”

Tags AC Milan Notification Ricardo Rodriguez
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