Genoa vs AC Milan preview - Amelia excited by Genoa return

AC Milan goalkeeper Marco Amelia is not expecting an easy ride but is relishing the prospect of returning to former club Genoa.

The 29-year-old, who spent two seasons at Genoa before joining Milan last year, will play from the start at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris with Christian Abbiati still out injured.

Amelia replaced Abbiati in goal in last weekend's 4-0 triumph over Chievo after the latter sustained a shoulder problem against Barcelona in the Champions League.

Amelia is keen for the Rossoneri to continue their fine form which has seen them clinch 19 of a possible 21 points.

"I'm looking forward to returning to Genoa," Amelia said. "I spent two years there and it will be great to go back to there.

"It's an important match to continue the run of results we are having."

Massimiliano Allegri's team head into tomorrow's game in second spot and only two points adrift of league leaders Juventus.

Genoa, meanwhile, have managed just four wins from their 11 games so far.

Last weekend's 2-0 defeat at Cesena dropped the Grifoni to ninth in the standings.

Milan have not lost in seven matches in Serie A but Amelia knows they will be made to work to end Genoa's unbeaten run at home this season.

"Genoa have a good group," he said. "I think they are missing a few points in the standings.

"They play well at home and have good quality players.

"Even though they will be without (Rodrigo) Palacio, I'm sure they will make life difficult for us."

Palacio, who is Genoa's top scorer with five league goals so far, is suspended for the game.

Genoa coach Alberto Malesani is set to field Bosko Jankovic alongside Andrea Caracciolo in attack.

The visitors are without Alessandro Nesta, Gennaro Gattuso and Antonio Cassano, all out injured.