Empoli v AC Milan: Rossoneri welcome Tuscan test

Date: 23rd September 2014 at 3:14am
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AC Milan will travel to Empoli in what should be a welcome reprieve from a fast-paced start to the Serie A season.

The home side will entertain the seven time Champions League winners having accumulated just one point from their three games, while Milan find themselves in a very flattering position. Despite some shaky performances and a defeat to Juventus last week Milan sit pretty in third.

The influence of Filippo Inzaghi on the team has brought about a whole new approach to their attack, but as yet has seen few examples of improvement in defense. While Milan may have recaptured some of the tenacity of teams from the past, they still need to prove their credentials in Serie A, and a trip to Tuscany is a good place to start.

It will be an interesting game for Empoli midfielder Simone Verdi, who spent the majority of his youth career with the Rossoneri. Still only 22, and with plenty to prove to his former club, it wouldn’t be too surprising if Verdi gets on the scoresheet. Despite the wonderful occasion the game presents for some of Milan’s bit part players, Inzaghi looks unlikely to make any significant changes to his squad.

Diego Lopez is still out injured meaning Christian Abbiati will play his second game of the season, while Chelsea loanee Marco van Ginkel is expected to make his debut.

Empoli have no issues to speak of when it comes to injury setbacks. Francesco Tavano remains the club’s main source of goals and Daniele Rugani one of their big plus points at the back. However they will be up against a menacing Milan attack, which has eight goals in three matches, and now welcomes Fernando Torres into the picture, with the Spaniard most likely to lead the line for the Rossoneri.

Empoli fans will have to wait for Riccardo Saponara to make his return to the Stadio Carlo Castellani having picked up a knee injury. Also not in the side is Italian wonderkid Hachim Mastour, who has yet to make any appearances so far this season.

Empoli – Sepe; Rui, Barba, Rugani, Hisaj; Croce, Valdifiori, Vecino, Verdi, Pucciarelli, Tavano.

AC Milan – Abbiati; Abate, Zapata, Bonera, De Sciglio; De Jong, Poli, Van Ginkel; Bonaventura, Menez, Torres.

 

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