Ancelotti stays calm over Milan sack rumours

(GETTY IMAGES)

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has shrugged off fresh speculation he could be sacked in May after fans expressed their discontent during Sunday's laboured 1-0 win over Cagliari.

Ancelotti, Serie A's longest serving manager having been appointed in 2001, led Milan to European Cup triumphs in 2003 and 2007 but has captured only one league title in 2004.

His side finished fifth last term and are third this season, 11 points behind leaders Inter Milan, who won the city derby 2-1 last week.

"I understand that after seeing the same face on the bench for seven years, the criticism can increase. But I am very attached to the fans and these colours and I calmly accept the criticism, which I think is temporary," he told Radio Rai on Monday.

"Milan have not expressed their best form but I don't think these sorts of performances will continue."

Club owner Silvio Berlusconi criticised Milan's form during the week, increasing media speculation that Ancelotti could be out of a job at the end of the season.

Ancelotti and Sunday's goalscorer Clarence Seedorf, who has struggled of late, were particularly booed by the Milan fans on Sunday.