Milan starting from scratch, says Abbiati

AC Milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati believes his team will be no better placed than any other at the beginning of the 2011/12 season.

Milan will start the new campaign as defending champions in Serie A for the first time since 2004 following their title victory last season.

Cross-city rivals Inter Milan, winner of five consecutive league titles until their dominance was ended in May, are sure to head the list of potential challengers.

And the experienced Abbiati has called on his team-mates to avoid any complacency if they are to retain their crown.

“The difference is that we have the scudetto on our jersey,” Abbiati said.

“Aside from that, not much else changes, because we have to restart as (do) all the other teams and we need to be ready to fight from the beginning, this season too.”

“That’s how I am, I have to fight for everything, and it will be the same this season too.”

The Italian domestic season begins with a Super Cup showdown between Coppa Italia winners Inter and Serie A winners Milan.

“We have to start preparing for August 6 match against Inter Milan, that’s our first objective, then the championship, and Champions League, and Coppa Italia,” Abbiati said.

“We will see which objectives we can achieve on the way, or are easier to achieve.”