Serginho bids farewell to Milan

Brazilian defender Serginho has bid farewell to the AC Milan fans as he prepares for his last game for the club on Sunday. Serginho has suffered a series of injury problems over the last couple of years that have hampered his chances of a first-team place.

"After my back problems, I haven't been able to get back to peak fitness, which is why I think the time is right to leave," he explained.

"I came to Milan in the summer of 1999 along with Gennaro Gattuso and Andriy Shevchenko when I was 27 and I have spent nine splendid years for which I thank the club and the fans.

"I have managed to find a piece of Brazil in Italy and it has been stupendous.

"Having come here to complete a mission, today I can calmly accept that my career is over.

"Sunday evening will be difficult because San Siro has become my home, but I am happy with everything I have done for this club."