AC Milan defender Andrea Bertolacci is determined to prove himself this season.

Bertolacci admits his €20m price-tag “weighed on me," but he's determined to improve.

“I can begin again because I know the club and environment now," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“It is in my nature to enter a new situation on tip-toes. I am timid and reserved, with great respect at the base of everything. Now I know what it means to be at Milan and this will be my strength.

“I believe that I am a balanced person, trying to set the example for others and at the same time learning from my teammates so I can improve.

“I am well aware that my first season wasn't great and I am not seeking an alibi. It is not in my nature. I do want to point out one thing, which is that every time I was starting to get on track and become the 'real' Andrea, I'd get injured.

“The muscular problems really affected me. It's not justification for my form, but at least explains why I delivered less than expected. In any case, I take full responsibility for my performances.

“The real Bertolacci can do well both attacking and defending, sacrificing himself for the team, providing goals and assists. In my last season at Genoa, I scored six and had eight assists, so that was my best campaign.

“I'd be happy to replicate those figures this term. I am not a striker, but I do miss scoring goals and it's something I generally always achieved. Just getting one goal is not ok with me.

“Above all, last season I lacked consistency and as time went on I lost my confidence too. You saw me play in fits and starts, playing at 50 per cent of my capabilities. If some say I don't have a strong character, I reply that I am not at Milan by chance.

“I never thought of giving up and moving on. I won't leave Milan as a loser. I want to do well here and win back my place in the Nazionale."