AC Milan manager Filippo Inzaghi says that he expects to see striker Stephan El Shaarawy amongst the best in the world in the next few years. The Italian international was touted as one of the next big things in world football a few years ago, but the presence of big-name players like Mario Balotelli ahead of him in the pecking order limited his first-team opportunities. Still just 21 years old, the striker has a lot of time to find his feet. After AC Milan signed Fernando Torres on a two-year loan deal from Chelsea in the summer, it was speculated that El Shaarawy’s first-team opportunities would be reduced even more.

This is indeed proved to be the case after El Shaarawy has been an unused substitute in recent matches. He has featured in only three matches so far this season, and hasn’t been able to have much of an impact on the Champions League betting so far. Speaking about his situation, Inzaghi says that people should not forget that the player is just 21 and that he will get opportunities over the course of the season. Since Milan do not have any form of European football, rotating players will also be difficult for Inzaghi. After a good start to the season, Milan are now without a win in the last three matches. They will be hoping to get three points when Chievo visit the San Siro during the weekend.

“When I arrived I thought about the 4-3-3 formation for him as it brings the best out of his qualities. I respect him a lot and he had a great match versus Lazio. Then he had an injury. I made him play against Juventus as a sign of how much I rate him.  We have seven players up front. Unfortunately it’s hard to leave three on the bench. I will try to send four out on the pitch,” said Inzaghi.