Gattuso set for Milan stay

AC Milan vice-captain has Gennaro Gattuso has denied claims he is set to swap Italy for Russia.

In June, combative midfielder Gattuso turned down a transfer to cashed-up Russian Premier League club Anzhi Makhachkala, where he would have joined Brazil legend Roberto Carlos.

But after agent Andrea D’Amico claimed a departure from the Serie A could still be on, the 33-year-old sought to set the record straight.

“Well, I’ve always been honest. I said I had to think about the offer they made me, but I’ve also always said Milan is my home,” Gattuso said.

“I can’t just forget 12 years like that. My contract will continue for another year, I’ve still got a Milan shirt and I’m still a Milan player. I will definitely stop playing in two years, but it’s also normal what (D’Amico) says, he’s doing his job. He can’t say a door will be closed forever, because he is an agent and that’s his job, but I’ve already said Milan is my home.”

A former mainstay for Italy before his retirement from international football in 2012, Gattuso made 31 appearances for Milan last season, scoring twice – including a crucial goal at Juventus – as the Rossoneri won their first league title since 2004.

His performances indicated that age was yet to catch up with him, though a high-profile touchline run-in with Tottenham assistant coach Joe Jordan in the Champions League somewhat overshadowed his season.