Stam the man for Kaká

By Fernando Duarte

Crucial role
Stam played a crucial role in his club's 2-0 first-leg triumph against their city rivals, not only helping to keep the Nerazzurri's fearsome attack at bay, but also scoring with a pinpoint header to give his team the lead in the dying moments of the first half.

'Precious asset'
Kaká is delighted to have the 32-year-old on his side, and told uefa.com: "I thought Jaap Stam was absolutely outstanding in the first leg. It is simple - Stam is without doubt one of the world's best defenders. He should be considered a precious asset by any club.

Inspiring display
"For AC Milan he was a fundamental signing," the Brazilian continued. "Injuries have kept him on the sidelines too much this season but he's back now and making a difference. He's in great form and I think everybody could see just how good he is at the San Siro last week."

Inter backlash
Kaká will be hoping Stam puts in another colossal display for the six-time European Champion Clubs' Cup winners, as Milan look to defend their two-goal advantage. However, the Brazilian playmaker knows nothing can be taken for granted after a 4-0 defeat by RC Deportivo La Coruña sent them hurtling out of last season's competition at the same stage, and the 22-year-old is on his guard, fearful of an Inter backlash.

'Hard lesson'
Kaka said: "Inter have only lost two games all season which shows just what they are capable of, even though both those defeats were against us. Any team in the Champions League must not be underestimated, not even in situations where the tie looks over. We learned that hard lesson last year.

Not afraid
"However, we can't allow the same thing to happen again," he added. "The fact that the second leg is taking place in front of 70,000 Inter fans does not frighten us one bit, because we're more than used to playing in the San Siro. At this level you can't afford to be scared and we are not."

Patient approach
Many pundits believe the Rossoneri will not only see off Inter with ease, but are dead certs to progress through to this season's final in Istanbul on 25 May. Chelsea FC are favourites to join Milan in the showpiece event, and although Kaká relishes such a prospect, he is taking things one step at a time.

'Fantastic challenge'
"People are predicting an AC Milan v Chelsea final, and playing against a team like Chelsea in Turkey would be a fantastic challenge and one of those matches you dream of as a kid," Kaká admitted. "But it would be arrogant to speculate too much about that, when we still have a tricky quarter-final to play.

Next step
"We must wait and see what happens first," he added. "It's exciting to have the Champions League title within our reach. We are very happy to be in a position to fight for the trophy but there is no space for celebrations yet."