Karsdorp: Real shame we didn't get three points

Nicolo Zaniolo scored the only goal of the game for the Giallorossi, on a night where heroics from AC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma time and time again denied clear goalscoring chances.

Eusebio Di Francesco’s side played amidst a difficult atmosphere, with fans angry at the manner of the midweek Coppa Italia exit against Fiorentina.

“It was a difficult game, after what happened in Florence,” Karsdorp said.

“Today we really wanted to make amends for that performance, we wanted to win at all costs. The squad was focused and trained really well in the days after Wednesday’s game.

“It’s a real shame we didn’t bring the three points home, because I think we deserved to win. But I saw a lot of good signs and I’m confident heading into the upcoming games.”

Another start in a big game for the Dutch full-back, who looks to be putting a nightmare start to life in the Italian capital behind him.

“Physically perhaps I still need to improve a bit, because after 85 minutes I was feeling a bit of cramp in my legs,” he said.

“But I’m definitely doing much better and I’m showing that too. I’m a fighter. I’m back now and I hope to keep going like this.”

Karsdorp completed his post-match press obligations in Dutch, as he continues to learn the local language.

“Clearly I should learn Italian – also because my wife has Italian ancestry and when we go out she often does the translating for us,” he said.

“Definitely it is still a bit tougher for me: after the injury, after the rehabilitation I wanted to go home where I had the support and help of my family. It’s something I want to work on in the future though, to improve my Italian – although I should say that right now I already understand it pretty well.”