Allegri sees Roma match as decisive early test

Posted Saturday, October 29, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri said Friday he saw Saturday's encounter with Roma as potentially decisive if his side are to retain the title.

"It is a match against a direct title rival," noted Allegri. "We must bring back a positive result to build on our run of three straight wins."

Milan's French defender Philippe Mexes, still finding his way back after six months out with knee ligament problems, will not make the trip to face his old club after suffering a hand fracture in training.

"It's a shame as he was close to coming back," said Allegri.

Veteran Clarence Seedorf is also left out of the squad.

Roma boss Luis Enrique is under pressure after a less than stellar start to the season—three defeats in eight games—which has left them in midtable three points adrift of the rossoneri, who themselves trail leaders Juventus by two points.

The Spaniard said he wanted to see the same kind of commitment as that shown in the recent loss to Sampdoria "but without the mistakes".

"In Genoa we turned in the best showing since I have been at the club. Everyone looked at the result but not me.

"(Milan) will be an interesting match. They are chasing the title as defending champions. It will be a good test for us."