Filippo Galli, a revered figure in AC Milan's history, has called on manager Stefano Pioli to include Samuel Chukwueze in the starting lineup for Thursday's crucial UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg clash against AS Roma, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
With a 1-0 deficit from the first leg, the Rooseneri face an uphill battle, requiring at least two goals without conceding to progress to the last four of the competition.
The Super Eagles winger played just 12 minutes of first leg at the Giuseppe Meazza but his impact was felt in such limited time, almost providing an assist to the seater missed by teammate, Olivie Giroud.
Galli emphasized the importance of fielding the winger from the start, suggesting that his presence alongside Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic could be pivotal against Roma.
Speaking to Pianetamilan, Galli stated, "Starting Chukwueze against Roma could be an idea, but this doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing either Leao or Pulisic. Perhaps evaluating whether to move Loftus back to midfield, therefore deploying Pulisic as an attacking midfielder."
He added, "Then obviously Pioli is there every day and knows the dynamics; he will be able to make the right choices."
By Olujimi Dare Ogun