Allegri stays upbeat on title hopes

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri believes his team’s 2-0 midweek defeat at Lazio will not hurt his side’s Scudetto aspirations.

The Rossoneri, who host Napoli on Sunday afternoon, lost for the fourth time this season in Rome on Wednesday night.

Milan are one point behind Serie A leaders Juventus, who have a game in hand.

“We played a terrible game but I don’t think this result gives the all-clear to Juventus,” Allegri said.

“The campaign is still long and there will be time to discuss these things. I believe the defeat can do us good and help us to grow. Lately, despite winning, we haven’t had the same grit that we need to win the Scudetto.

“This is why I believe the defeat can be healthy.”

This weekend’s opponents Napoli have drawn three of their last four games, losing the other match against Genoa at the weekend.

Juventus remain unbeaten this season and host Siena on Sunday with both teams heading into the encounter fully rested after their midweek games were called off due to snow.

Siena, who hold the last position of safety, remain winless on the road this season.

Meanwhile, Maxi Lopez, Djamel Mesbah and Stephan El Shaarawy are the new names added by Milan in their Champions League squad.

Lopez and Mesbah, two January signings, are new additions, while El Shaarawy had originally been left out of the UEFA list.

Milan play Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League this month.

Played yesterday: Novara 1 (Mascara 79) Chievo 2 (Pellissier 33; Thereau 78).