Former AC Milan coach Alberto Zaccheroni says the Rossonero are deserved Serie A leaders.

Zaccheroni insists Milan would be top of the table even if the stadium lockouts were not imposed.

"If they're first only for the absence of the public at the stadium? Of course not. There are many factors," he began.

"Maldini is one, I know Paolo very well and he knows even better the internal dynamics of the team. He did it as captain and will do so today as manager, with even greater responsibilities: he knows how to put you at ease, 'cleans the air', intervenes if there are difficulties.

"It is a heritage that others do not have, today's players feel it. He gives certainties, Ibra takes away other responsibilities. He seems to say: 'I'll take care of it, in difficulties, lean on me'.

"Prediction on the Scudetto, I answer: 'Show me where Zlatan plays...'."