AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allergri has stated that it is likely that Kaka will start against Torino on Saturday night.
The Brazilian international re-joined the Rossoneri on transfer deadline day and his new coach believes he is fit enough to start.
“I think he will be in the starting XI,” Allegri told reporters on Friday. “He is in good shape, he has trained really well and he has the enthusiasm of a young boy.
“I think he is a little nervous about his debut tomorrow and it is only normal that he is missing a bit of match sharpness.”
Although Kaka endured a terrible time with injuries at his previous club Real Madrid, Allegri still thinks he has plenty to offer.
“Kaka can give a lot to Milan. He has done some great things here at this club, he hasn’t played a lot over the last three years in Madrid, but he has immediately put himself at my disposal.
“He spends a lot of the day at Milanello and he is a great example for the youngsters.”
There are rumours as to who will partner Kaka and Mario Baoltelli up front for Milan, but Allegri has insisted that he has plenty of options.
“Alessandro Matri could start, but I’m thinking of Robinho and Stephan El Shaarawy as well. I have options.”
The latter was dropped to the bench in Week 2 and his omission quickly became a talking point in the Italian media after his struggles in front of goal following the arrival of Balotelli in January.
“There is no problem with El Shaarawy,” Allegri claimed. “It doesn’t exist. Stephan’s goals dried up in the second half of the season, but his performances remained good.
“It was his first season under the spotlight, but he did well.
“Since he returned from the Confederations Cup, he’s only really missed the Cagliari game. You can’t fear competition for places when you are in a great team. That needs to be a stimulus.
“El Shaarawy needs to stay calm because he has my faith.”
Milan do have fitness concerns ahead of the Turin clash, especially in defence after this week’s injuries to Mattia De Sciglio and Ignazio Abate.
“I have to thank Cristian Zaccardo, he’s a great professional,” stated Allegri who is likely to give the World Cup winner just his second appearance for the Rossoneri.
“Had he left in the summer then we would be in trouble today. I could use midfielder Andrea Poli at the back, but I prefer to field players who know the role.”
Follow Richard Hinman on Twitter: @RichardHinman
