Allegri has responded to the speculation, saying he sees such stories as disrespectful to the fans and the culture of the club.

AC Milan have had a slow start to the Serie A season, with just three points from their first three games in Italy's top flight and a scoreless draw in their Champions League opener against Anderlecht on Tuesday.

Reports about Allegri's supposed resignation emerged midweek but the head coach has been quick to dismiss them ahead of the clash at Stadio Friuli.

Speaking at a press conference, Allegri said: "I read about my alleged resignation in some newspapers and want to say that I have not resigned, and this story shows a lack of respect to the club and the fans. This is not an easy time but we are trying to improve.

"When I started this year, after the summer sales, I accepted this challenge with great enthusiasm and determination, and we will get better."

Milan sit 10th in the table ahead of a trip to Udinese on Sunday.