How AC Milan could line up against Napoli

Ahead of the Italian clubs' first-ever continental contest, Milan have an almost full squad available, with only Pierre Kalulu set to miss out with a calf problem and both veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Brazilian winger Junior Messias doubtful due to thigh injuries.

A dull 0-0 draw against Empoli last time out highlighted the thinness of Stefano Pioli's squad, so several Rossoneri regulars will return in midweek after being rested against the Tuscan side.

Last season's Serie A MVP Rafael Leao and their four-goal Champions League top scorer Olivier Giroud will be back in action up front, supported by mercurial playmaker Brahim Diaz, whose two-year loan from Real Madrid concludes at the end of this season.

As in a recent 4-0 win over Napoli at Stadio Maradona, Simon Kjaer should also bring his vast experience to bear in the Milan back four, with Malick Thiaw expected to drop down to the bench.

Meanwhile, in midfield, Pioli favourite Rade Krunic is likely to replace Tommaso Pobega and join forces with Ismael Bennacer and Sandro Tonali.

Captain Davide Calabria was recently recalled to the side as the Rossoneri reverted to a more familiar lineup after dabbling with a three-man defence, and the Brescia-born full-back will again be given the task of nullifying Napoli's wing wizard Khivcha Kvaratskhelia.

AC Milan possible starting lineup: Maignan; Calabria, Tomori, Kjaer, Hernandez; Tonali, Krunic, Bennacer; Diaz, Leao; Giroud