“This has been a very important week for us, because we have not done our best work on home turf, performing better away,” conceded the Coach.

“We need to play to our standards at San Siro as well and get back to winning ways. The next three games will be very indicative of our future. The one with Empoli is the most crucial, because it is the opportunity to break through our impasse.”

The Rossoneri had a dreadful run of results leading up to the break for international duty, but finally ended their winless streak in style with a 5-1 demolition of Lazio in Rome.

To maintain that confidence, they must beat Empoli ahead of their clashes with Roma and Sampdoria.

“Empoli have introduced a lot of talented youngsters this season, above all Sebastian Giovinco, even if it is not easy to bring in so many new faces at once to Serie A,” noted Ancelotti.

“In any case, they beat Palermo and are improving. I spoke to Gigi Cagni and he told me we’ll have it tough, but I knew that already!”

Ahead of a crucial Champions League encounter with Shakhtar Donetsk, the Coach could be tempted to rest several players.

“Ronaldo will be back in the squad soon, as he has almost completed his rehabilitation work. I think that next week he can be in the side.

“Alberto Gilardino has changed, as he is more relaxed and decisive. The air around him changed and you could see how hungry he was going into the Italy game with South Africa.”

Paolo Maldini has also recovered, although controversy continues to surround Nelson Dida following his two-match Champions League ban for feigning injury when attacked by a Celtic fan.

“We have appealed against Dida’s ban and expect something. In any case, Dida has trained hard and will play on Sunday. It is important for the squad to be able to count on Maldini, especially as he is the captain, and before Christmas everyone will get their chance to make a contribution.”

From : acmilan-online.com