AC Milan chief Massimo Mirabelli stands by the appointment of Rino Gattuso.

Vincenzo Montella was fired to make way for Gattuso, but the situation has not improved.

After defeat to Atalanta, Mirabelli said: “Rino is a great man, a great Coach. We knew that we were facing a lot of problems and he lives Milan to the full, caring so much about this side.

“During these difficult times, it's important to be men, stick together and work to get the ship back into the harbour safely. We must shoulder every imaginable criticism.

“I am protective of the squad because I am responsible for new buys, contract renewals and confirmations. The biggest responsibility I feel is mine and therefore criticism must be aimed at me.

“I am proud of all these players who try so hard, but for various reasons we struggle to become a team. We are all very clear on what the issues are and I am happy to take the brunt of the criticism if it means shielding the squad."