AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi is happy he stuck with coach Massimiliano Allegri.

He had been critical of Coach Allegri during the early months of the campaign, but stood by him and was elated by the 2-0 Champions League victory over Barcelona.

"After the departure of some top players, it was difficult to put together a team that would be competitive from the start," explained Berlusconi.

"It took us eight rounds to get settled. The media immediately put Allegri's position in doubt, but the Coach can confirm our rapport has always been friendly.

"We had telephone calls before the games, but always with great reciprocal respect, even during the tough times.

"Milan have recovered unity and there are no elements of worry in the locker room. Without those first eight games, we'd be top of the Serie A table."