Pioli backs Milan to show Serie A focus after Juventus win points deduction appeal

Stefano Pioli insists Milan are “focused” on domestic league objectives after Juventus’ successful points deduction appeal saw the Rossoneri slip outside Serie A’s top four.

The move to deduct Juventus 15 points in January due to alleged breaches in relation to historical transfers was reversed this week, lifting Massimiliano Allegri’s side to third place in the Italian top flight.

Milan subsequently dropped to fifth – three points outside the Champions League qualifying places with eight matches remaining.

Fresh from reaching the Champions League semi-finals in midweek, Pioli’s side return to Serie A action when they host Lecce on Sunday.

Last season’s champions, Milan have won just once in their last six league matches, but their head coach is confident his players can address their recent struggles.

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“The important thing is to stay focused on the things we can control,” Pioli said at his pre-match press conference on Saturday. “The sooner there is a definitive position, the better.

“The Champions League is locked away in a vault, now we’re reopening the league vault. We have to push hard, we don’t want this position in the standings.

“It’s not all in our hands. We need to claim a lot of points and the calendar gives us the chance to do it.

“There are eight games left, five at San Siro. We can finish the season well thanks to the qualities we have.

“What we’ve done so far doesn’t matter, the most important match is tomorrow.”