Seedorf: Leonardo no issue in derby

AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf insists the team will not be distracted when they tackle the Inter Milan side of former coach Leonardo.

Serie A leaders Milan meet cross-city rivals Inter – second on the Serie A table – in an all-important derby clash on Saturday.

Of added significance is the fact that Inter will be lead by Brazilian manager Leonardo, who coached Milan last season.

But Dutch veteran Seedorf is confident the squad will not be deterred by the sight of the Milan favourite on the opposition bench.

“We will play against the players, not against Leonardo,” Seedorf said.

“I wish him good luck as I wish good luck to everyone.”

Milan – aiming to win the Scudetto for first time since 2004 – top the table by just two points ahead of Inter, who have claimed the last five championship titles.

“I think Inter Milan deserves respect, but AC Milan too for what we’ve done this season up to now,” Seedorf said.

“We must keep looking for the respect and possibly increasing it by playing a great match. A great match by a great team and great group (of players).”

“In my whole career I’ve always thought it is important to have class on the pitch, any moment, really any moment.”

“We need facts, and not words and we know how to do it.”