Ancelotti backs Milan to improve

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has no doubt that his former club AC Milan will be a force to be reckoned this season with despite their poor start to the campaign.

Leonardo, who replaced Ancelotti at the helm of the Rossoneri this summer, is under pressure with Milan 11th in the Serie A standings.

"Let's not make any drama," said Ancelotti in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. "They are going through a delicate time affected by the sale of Kaka (to Real Madrid). But Milan have the resources to bounce back. It's a time of transition."

He added: "Leonardo has a difficult task but he is surrounded by a great structure. The club has confidence in him and you will soon see that he will be able to transmit his ideas."

Lack of goalscoring has been the Rossoneri's main problem.

The team has hit the back of the net just twice in the last six league games.

Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato has not scored for Milan since their Serie A opening win over Siena, but Ancelotti believes he will deliver.

"Like any young champion, he has ups and downs," said Ancelotti. "This has happened to him in the past but he is the best of Milan.

"No one has his quality, I can attest to that."