Mirante credits Milan youngsters after Cagliari win and brands Simic ‘ready’

Antonio Mirante was by far the oldest AC Milan player on the field last night, and he commented on how he thinks some of the young talents are developing.

Head coach Stefano Pioli chose to name quite an interesting starting line-up which featured the likes of Antonio Mirante, Jan-Carlo Simic, Alex Jimenez, Luka Romero and Chaka Traore against an also rotated Cagliari side.

It was a decision supported by the club’s management given the number of injuries and starters needing rest, but it paid off as Luka Jovic (x2), Chaka Traore (in his first start) and Rafael Leao scored in a 4-1 win to secure progress to the quarter-finals.

Mirante – who is old enough to be a father to some of the players who played last night – spoke to Mediaset immediately after the game to comment on how some of the younger players did, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.

“It’s right to give credit to the younger players tonight. It wasn’t easy, the approach wasn’t the best, but then we settled down and did well,” he said.

“With the two-goal lead we played reasonably well. It’s a shame for the goal conceded, it makes me angry, but it was the end of the match so there’s a bit of levity.”

“Simic? Physically and mentally he’s ready, he’s always focused and holds his own even from a physical point of view, he knows what he has to do despite his young age.

“I liked all the young players, Jimenez is It was a nice surprise. Given the injuries, the young players have to give us a hand and are proving that they can stay with us.”