Milan need to show a lot of improvement if they want to return to winning ways, having been very lucky to escape defeat at Marassi. Bologna proved they are in great form by giving Inter a hard time in Coppa Italia quarter-finals, but after losing the tie in extra time, Felsinei will attempt to fare much better when they take on the other side from Milan at the same venue.

Disappointing showing at Marassi

Even if many are quick to criticize Milan boss Max Allegri, I believe he has done very well considering the circumstances. Departures of key players as well as constant selection problems have made it extremely difficult for the Rossoneri, but they, nonetheless, managed to remain very close to the Champions League places. Following a very slow start to the league campaign, Milan have shown a considerable improvement both home and away, although their last two showings on the road have left a lot to be desired. However, the team did rediscover their home form, winning last three league matches at San Siro, as well as five of last six, meaning they have reason to hope for a good result against Bologna. The attacking department should look much better with Giampaolo Pazzini back from suspension, but the back line will have their work cut out for them against Bologna trio Diamanti, Gabbiadini and Gilardino.

Daniele Bonera, Luca Antonini and Sulley Muntari have resumed full training, but De Jong, Mesbah, Ambrosini, Vila and Yepes remain in the infirmary.

Excellent game against Inter

Bologna were always going to exhibit some inconsistency after their squad underwent major changes in the summer, but this team have shown on numerous occasions they are slowly becoming a genuine mid table side. Team’s promising run of results came to an abrupt end as Felsinei suffered back to back defeats to Parma and Genoa, but the 4-0 win over Chievo ensured they return to the right track. However, it was the excellent showing in midweek’s match against Inter that proved Bologna have what it takes to match the best sides in the league, with their excellent counterattacking tactics helping them come from two goals behind. Bologna ultimately lost the game after extra time, as Andrea Ranocchia scored with the last kick of the match, but they will surely have something to build on when they take on Milan at San Siro.

Cesare Natali and Robert Acquafresca miss out through injury, while Saphir Taider is doubtful with a knee problem.

Verdict

Milan have been scoring goals for fun at their San Siro and can be expected to continue the trend against Bologna, a team that caused all sorts of problems to Inter in Coppa Italia. With Felsinei extremely strong up front and not that convincing at the back, everything suggests we will see a high-scoring match here.

Top pick: Both teams to score   1.95 (19/20) @ Stan James

Alternative pick 1: Over 2.75 goals   2.02 (51/20) @ bet365

Alternative pick 2: Bologna with +1.5 Asian handicap   1.70 (7/10) @ BetVictor

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