AC Milan: Silvio Berlusconi backs under-pressure coach Mihajlovic

AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has given his backing to under-pressure coach Sinisa Mihajlovic.

Milan have struggled so far this season and go into Sunday's home game with fourth-placed Fiorentina occupying eighth spot in Serie A.

Reports suggested Italy's former World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi had been approached as a replacement for the 46-year-old.

"Do I still believe in Mihajlovic? Certainly," Berlusconi said.

"We have to go forward and give it our all with the Milan we have."

Mihajlovic is the club's fourth coach in two years and a slow start to the season, with four defeats in their first eight games, led to pressure on the Serb.

However, that has eased after one loss in the past nine games, and Mihajlovic has led his side into the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia.

He said: "My relationship with Silvio Berlusconi is the same as always, much like the questions you keep asking me about it.

"We speak at least once a week, he is always kind and respectful with me.

"I've got broad shoulders, every game is treated as a last-chance saloon. I've seen so many this season I never want to see another bar."