Abate motivated for derby

MILAN. AC Milan full-back Ignazio Abate insists there will be no lack of motivation in tomorrow’s match against fierce rivals Inter.
The Milan derby is traditionally one of the most revered contests in world football due to the prestige and history the two Serie A giants boast.
However, this weekend’s contest at San Siro has a somewhat underwhelming feel considering the struggles of both teams in the league this season.
Much was expected of Filippo Inzaghi’s first season in charge of Milan, but they are seven points adrift of the Uefa Europa League places and some 28 off the pace of leaders Juventus.

Roberto Mancini’s return to Inter has also as yet failed to yield a turnaround in fortunes and they are two spots and one point below their rivals in 10th. Despite the sides’ respective failures, Abate - who has been deputising as captain for the injured Riccardo Montolivo - says the burning desire to secure bragging rights remains as fierce as ever. “It is not the same derby as a few years ago,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “But there is still motivation [to win].
“We want to give satisfaction to the club and to the fans. They’re a good team with good players and great strikers like Mauro Icardi. So we have to be careful.”