Kaka ready for opener
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Kaka is raring to go after suffering further disappointment with the national side in this summer's World Cup, and he is hoping to take inspiration from compatriot Felipe Massa.
Massa, a driver for Formula One team Ferrari, invited Kaka into the Ferrari garage ahead of the Italian Grand Prix this week, an experience that clearly had a big effect on the player.
"I am certain Milan will be the Ferrari of Serie A," said Kaka.
He is also aware of the need hit top gear when Lazio arrive on Sunday.
"I cannot wait to get back into action. I expect Sunday to be a difficult game straight away against Lazio, but we are optimistic and are aware of our strengths and what we are capable of.
The match also marks the side's first competitive game without the departed Andriy Shevchenko.
Despite the Ukrainian's hero status at the club, Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti could already be grooming his future replacement, with new signing Ricardo Oliveira desperate to fill Shevchenko's boots in attack.
Oliveira has inherited Shevchenko's number seven shirt, but has no qualms about the weight of expectation.
"People say it is important, but all I know is that people are giving me a responsibility and I don't want to let them down," he said.
"Sheva gave a lot, was here for seven years, and made a name for himself at Milan, but now I am here to write my own story."
Oliveira may have to wait to gain a starting place with Italian internationals Alberto Gilardino and Filippo Inzaghi both fit for selection.
Lazio arrive at the San Siro eager to start erasing their negative points tally - a target that has taken on even more importance in the light of their added exclusion from the UEFA Cup.
The possibility of a successful league campaign is now all that remains for the club, having already been eliminated from the Coppa Italia.
Former Milan midfielder Pasquale Foggia, who is on loan at Lazio this season, is looking forward to returning to the San Siro on Sunday.
"I dream of winning in Milan," said the 23-year-old.
"Of course they are a team full of champions, but we will give it our best shot and nothing is certain."
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