Milan will go along with Montella – Fassone backs boss after derby loss

AC Milan chief executive Marco Fassone gave his backing to head coach Vincenzo Montella in the aftermath of a sapping 3-2 Derby della Madonnina defeat to Inter.

Mauro Icardi completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the final minute, having already twice given Luciano Spalletti’s high-flyers the lead.

A brilliant effort from distance by Suso and a Samir Handanovic own goal had Milan within touching distance of a point after a thrilling second-half rally but Montella was left angered by the decision to penalise Ricardo Rodriguez for impeding Danilo D’Ambrosio in the area.

Despite lavish close-season investment, Milan have now lost four and won four of eight Serie A matches so far this season and reports this week linked Switzerland’s former Lazio boss Vladimir Petkovic with Montella’s post.

Nevertheless, Fassone was unequivocal in his backing for the 43-year-old when he spoke to Milan TV after Sunday’s match.

“We certainly go along with Vincenzo,” he said. “When we are reconstructing our [club] we need to give time and tools.

“Now we see the first positive signs. Montella will absolutely have the time to continue working.”

Fassone added: “Derbies are always an amazing thing. This time it turned badly for us and they celebrated with their fans.

“The next time, I am convinced it will be nice for our fans. The second half seemed like a completely different game and, with quality and attitude, we closed Inter in their half of the field.

“[Tenth in the table] is not a position for Milan and we have to roll our sleeves up but we have received good indications.”