AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has hinted that injured striker Alexandre Pato could return to action against arch-rivals Inter on October 7.
The Seleção international is yet to make an official appearance for the Rossoneri this season as he suffered an adductor muscle tear at the end of August.
Nevertheless, Pato is nearing his comeback as he is set to re-join the first team after next week’s Champions League game against Zenit St Petersburg.
Allegri said: “Pato is working well and when we get back from St Petersburg, he’ll join up with the rest of the team.
“I’ll then evaluate whether he’ll be available for the derby or not. I might ask him to play a couple of games with the youth team to build up his confidence.”
Pato has recently been praised by teammate Stephan El Shaarawy, who believes the Brazilian is “potentially one of the best players in the world” when he is not injured.
He said: “I hope Pato gets back soon, he’s potentially one of the best players in the world.
“He’s the present and the future of the team and I hope he gets back soon.”
Milan are currently preparing for their Serie A game away to Parma on Saturday.
