Allegri: We will play for Cassano

Posted Tuesday, November 01, 2011 by ESPN

AC Milan coach Massimo Allegri insists that the team will keep Antonio Cassano in their thoughts when they play BATE Borisov on Tuesday night.

The AC Milan striker was admitted to hospital after falling ill on the plane back from the 3-2 victory over Roma and has been warded since.

There has been no official word on the illness that has stricken the Italy international but he is thought to be out of action until after the winter break.

The 29-year-old has been a crucial part of Milan's attack this season, scoring two goals and setting up five in his nine league appearances.

Ahead of the Champions League Group H match against BATE Borisov in Minsk, Allegri said in a press conference that Cassano's absence will be felt.

He commented: "Tomorrow [Tuesday] we will play for Antonio [Cassano] as well and it is a great pity that he won't be playing as he has been in great form recently,

"Everybody is looking forward to his return."

Milan are on a good run having won five consecutive games in all competitions. However, Allegri is expecting a stern test against BATE.

"We had a very important game on Saturday and performed very well up front, but still conceded two goals.

"I am pleased with our display and hope that it will be a starting point for further successes.

"We have a very important game tomorrow as we are targeting first place and we have to win to approach our second game against Barcelona on equal terms.

"Although we have conceded a lot of goals lately I am not too worried about our defence.

"Sometimes we have conceded from set-pieces. We have some points to improve on there.

"During our game in Milan BATE played some good football. They have many quality players and everyone in our team should understand that it will not be an easy game."

AC Milan are currently top of Group H with seven points and a better head-to-head record with Barcelona, who also have seven points. They will be able to seal qualification to the next stage of the Champions League with a win on Tuesday.