AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli was pleased with victory over Benevento.

Hakan Calhanoglu scored early goal before Theo Hernandez netted for his first Serie A goal of 2021.

“Without a team spirit, we wouldn't get anywhere. We are a strong team, but not strong enough to get away with lacking the basics," said Pioli.

“We had some situations in recent weeks that penalised us, but I saw a good performance this evening."

The return of Zlatan Ibrahimovic was certainly felt, even if he didn't get on the scoresheet.

“Ibrahimovic is a champion and a champion makes everyone around him raise their game. Missing him was certainly damaging to the team, but we have reacted to the difficulties and showed character.

“It's an advantage not to give the opposition defence a regular point to focus on, so Zlatan has this great tactical intelligence and knows how to move around trying to find the space."