Gattuso wants to play in England

AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has said he would like to play in the English Premier League.

Rumours that Milan stalwart Gattuso was considering leaving have been circling for weeks but the Italy international, who played in Scotland with Rangers in 1997 and 1998, had been quiet on his future until now.

"I would like to have the possibility to play in the Premier League," he told Italy's Sky television on Friday. "It's a dream I have always had and never hidden. I think I have the characteristics to play in that league."

Fifth-placed Milan face Serie A leaders Inter in the city derby on Sunday and are desperate for a win to pressure Fiorentina in the battle for the fourth Champions League spot.

"Many people have asked me why I've not talked in this period. I don't want to talk because I don't want to bring personal problems into the group," he said. "We are concentrated on the derby. Our objective is fourth spot and afterwards I will have time to talk about my situation."

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said recently the tough-tackling midfielder was too important to the club and would not be able to leave whether he wanted to or not. Despite the speculation he wanted to move, no clubs have been linked in the media with the 30-year-old.