After a modest start to his Milan career last year, the former Barcelona forward is expecting to perform to the best of his ability this year.

The 29-year-old took part in the Rossoneri's first pre-season friendly of the season, a 2-0 win against Varese, and afterwards told www.acmilan.com: "Everyone, me included, knows my potential. Everyone knows what I can do for Milan and in my head I have only one thing: have a good preparation to face the new season well and give my best.

"Last year I felt good when I played, now I expect to play the whole season at a high level to thank all those who helped me from the first day.

"After a week of training I feel good, as does the whole team but we all know we have to work more to start the season well."

Reflecting on the team's prospects for the coming season, he added: "I think we're competitive, the team is strong, there are great players already here and others may arrive. Already, though, we are happy as we are and we can have a great season.

"Luis Fabiano is a great player, he could help us a lot because he's great but if he doesn't come, we still have Borriello, Inzaghi, and Pato."