With hopes of reaching the third available Champions League spot looking increasingly unlikely, AC Milan full-back Ignazio Abate has vented his frustration after drawing against Chievo in Serie A.
No goals at the Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi keeps the lacklustre Rossoneri sixth in the Italian league standings, currently 11 points behind Roma and six adrift of both Fiorentina and rivals Inter.
“The match started badly with a low tempo and we tried to be more aggressive in the second half but it wasn’t enough,” Abate told Sky Sport Italia post match.
“I’m angry because every time we are in this situation we say the same old things. If you aren’t determined or show ambition on the field then you’ll go nowhere.”
Milan still have a chance of obtaining a place in the Europa League should they finish above sixth, or if they can also defeat Juventus in the Coppa Italia final, but Abate remains concerned over the desire of his teammates.
“Every year it feels like we are here saying the same things and that’s not acceptable,”the 29 year-old defender concluded.”This team cannot afford to play without hunger or showing determination.
“We can’t settle for sixth, we must honour the jersey and spit blood for the team.”
Chievo have now held the Rossoneri to a goalless draw in there last three meetings at the Bentegodi.
