AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli was delighted with their 1-0 win against Sampdoria.

Rafael Leao struck the only goal of the game.

“It has been the perfect week. There were very difficult and delicate games coming up a week ago, so winning all three is certainly a great sign. We've got to take it one game at a time and maintain this mentality," Pioli told Sky Italia.

It has been a year since the surprise setback to Spezia knocked Milan off the top of the table and they never got back there alone again until now.

“Milan have an identity now, regardless of who plays, and that is the most gratifying thing for me, our work and the club.

“Our aim was to improve on last season. We currently have two points more than at this stage last term, so it'll be tough, but we face every match as the most important test.

“If I was a fan, I'd be in the stands celebrating with the rest of the crowd. I try to work hard to make my dreams come true.

“As a coach, I am proud when the fans are able to recognise a gesture like chasing down a ball and recovering a tackle. We are at a very high level when it comes to confidence and self-belief, so the club, players, fans, we are all pushing in the same direction.

“We know there's a long path ahead of us, but we want to keep it going."