AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli has explained Divock Origi's absence for victory against Sampdoria.

Milan won 2-1, despite the dismissal of Rafael Leao.

Former Liverpool striker Origi had been tipped to get his first start, but instead didn't make the trip at all due to a muscular issue.

“It's disappointing, because he's a good player, but he didn't feel right at the end of the training session," said Pioli.

"The muscle was hardening up, so it was best not to risk it."