AC Milan legend Billy Costacurta admits he came close to joining Tottenham during his playing career.

Ahead of a legends match between Arsenal and Milan at the Emirates on Saturday (2pm), Costacurta revealed his passion for the red half of north London.

“The idea of living in London was very exciting," Costacurta said on Tottenham's offer. “But I finally refused and you know why? Because I couldn't betray my English love.

“The truth is that I've been a keen Arsenal fan since my childhood, and playing for our bitter rivals would have been high treason.

“When I was younger I liked the Arsenal shirt, the stadium, and some of the players from the 1980s such as Liam Brady.

“And I've always gone against the tide. All my friends were Manchester United or Liverpool fans, so I picked Arsenal and I've never changed my mind."