AC Milan director Paolo Maldini has handed coach Rino Gattuso a public vote of confidence.

Gattuso has two years left on his contract though his position could depend on a top four finish.

“We're happy with Rino and we've never doubted him," said Maldini.

“There was never the idea of changing him. We're convinced that he's the right Coach for us.

“We have a very direct relationship with him and the players. Rino knows everything, he knows what we think of him and his work.

“We've never thought about changing him. He can also help our young players, since he knows the club well.

“He still has two years left on his contract. We didn't ask him to qualify for the Champions League at the start of the season, but now that we're up there...

“Leonardo and I often tell each other how nice it would be to get back to winning with Rino in the dugout.

“Between us remains a certain frankness. We talk to each other's faces. It's much better than talking behind each other's backs."