Maldini receives parental support
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Article summary
As Paolo Maldini battles to be fit to face Liverpool FC in the UEFA Champions League final, his father Cesare says the AC Milan captain will "do everything" to play.
Article body
'Little Paolo'
Cesare Maldini has no doubts about his son's desire to once more lead his team out on the biggest stage. "My little Paolo gets to a big final once more, this time with some injury troubles, but take my word that he will do all he can to be present in Athens," he said. The younger Maldini has been struggling with a knee injury of late but is desperate to play in his eighth final and, all being well, win the European Champion Clubs' Cup for a fifth time.
'Huge player'
Maldini senior is a great admirer of his son's disciplined approach but warned he may not be at his best. "It's a pity he's going through these fitness concerns that might reduce his work rate on the big day but everybody can rest assured that he's giving his utmost to be ready. I can't say if Paolo will play or not but I can tell you that we are all expecting a big and emotional win. If it's with Paolo, that's great, but if not it will still be massive because it's the team of my heart and the colours of my soul."
Wembley memories
Maldini senior still cherishes memories of the first of Milan's six victories in the European Champion Clubs' Cup, as the former Italy coach was the Rossoneri captain in a 2-1 victory against SL Benfica at Wembley in the 1962/63 final. "Once you experience such a huge moment you just can't forget it. Those pictures come back to me again and again," he said. "We made history by being the very first Italian club to win it and I'm proud to say that I was there. I have no words to describe my thanks to Milan for allowing me to be part of such an historic moment."
'Different result'
These days Maldini works as Milan's head of scouting and he expects Liverpool to be tough opponents in Athens, though he is obviously hoping for an alternative outcome to the 2005 UEFA Champions League final when the Reds famously came from 3-0 down to win on penalties. "Liverpool are very strong mentally and very physical. I know their coach [Rafael Benítez] extremely well. He loves attention to detail and always stick to his detailed game plan. It could be another great game between the two clubs...let's hope this time the result will be different."
