Paolo Maldini says AC Milan are 'worried' about Shamrock Rovers
by David KentAC Milan's technical director Paolo Maldini has admitted that his side are 'worried' about Shamrock Rovers.
The Rossonieri visit Tallaght Stadium on Thursday evening in the second qualifying round of the Europa League.
But it's their first game of the season and there could be a problem for the seven-time European champions.
Striker Anté Rebic is ruled out with suspension, young gun Rafael Leão is injured -- and the big name, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is doubtful.
Milan legend Maldini has noted all three absences and pointed to the Hoops' good form as a cause for worry.
Speaking to Sky Italy, Maldini said: “
''We are ready, I hope. It’s a game that scares us a lot.
“It’s a team that is doing well, first in their league, we have some problems, Rebic disqualified, Leao injured. We play away from home in a knockout match, we are rightly worried.”
Milan have come to these shores once before in a European tie -- and they came away without the win.
Athlone Town famously held them to a 0-0 draw in the UEFA Cup in 1975.
It could have been so much more for the Midlands club, if John Minnock hadn't missed a penalty.
The current First Division side were beaten 3-0 in the San Siro in the second leg.
Rovers are eight points clear at the top of the League of Ireland Premier Division table.
They warmed up for the Italian giants by beating hapless Cork City 3-0 in Turner's Cross on Saturday afternoon.
It won't be the first time that the 17-time LOI champs have dealt with a Serie A giant either.
Ten years ago, they came up against Juventus in the same competition.