AC Milan defender Pierre Kalulu has paid tribute Paolo Maldini.

Kalulu admits he was close to the Rossoneri legend, who was sacked by club owner Gerry Cardinale at the end of last season.

"Maldini has helped me more to understand how much football matters in Italy," said Kalulu.

"The fans are crazy, people really love him. When we went away, he was always the most acclaimed, even if he stopped playing more than ten years ago."

He also said: "I've grown in everything. I'm stronger, faster, more free-headed, things come more naturally to me. I can still improve in everything! I can still be more determined, especially in aerial duels, and I can always read the games better. That makes the difference at a high level."