The Dutchman feels that the former Sampdoria striker’s experience currently gives him the edge over the enigmatic 23-year-old, but is hoping that both are fit to face Juventus
AC Milan coach Clarence Seedorf believes that while Mario Balotelli is a player of great potential, Giampaolo Pazzini is a more reliable option up front.
Both strikers are minor fitness doubts for Sunday’s Serie A showdown with league leaders Juventus at San Siro, as Balotelli is struggling with a shoulder problem and Pazzini is still feeling the effects of a broken nose.
Seedorf is optimistic that both players will be fit to face the champions but hinted that Pazzini’s availability is of greater importance for the Rossoneri.
“We’ll see about Balotelli today,” the Dutchman told reporters on Saturday. “Pazzini is feeling some pain as well but he should make it.
“Pazzini has more experience than Balotelli and where Balotelli has space to grow, Pazzini provides more of a guarantee.”
Seedorf is also hopeful that Mattia De Sciglio and Michael Essien will be in the right condition to feature against the Bianconeri.
“I think De Sciglio will be available for selection even though he’s still feeling some pain [in his ankle],” the Milan boss explained.
“Essien is doing well and we have to remember that he has to play against Ateltico [Madrid in the Champions League] as well. He could start the match tomorrow [Sunday] and we’ll decide on that today.”
Milan go into their game against Juventus sitting ninth in Serie A, five points outside the European places.