‘First problem’: Milan duo share how they coped with Tottenham man Harry Kane

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AC Milan duo Sandro Tonali and Malick Thiaw have been quoted by TMW as explaining how the Serie A champions coped with Tottenham striker Harry Kane on Tuesday night – as the England skipper was left frustrated in the San Siro.

Milan secured a 1-0 win on Tuesday night in the first leg of their last 16 clash. A result that still gives Spurs hope, with the two clubs set to meet in North London next time out. But as things stand, Stefano Pioli’s side are leading the tie.

Kane was very busy, with Spurs looking to build up to their no.10 quickly – before Kane brought others into play. But, he could not provide the difference as Milan held firm. Spurs were only limited to half chances throughout the game.

Kane did hit the bar, but an offside flag was up. Veteran defender Simon Kjaer marshalled Kane well. As did Thiaw, who clocked up only a seventh Milan outing since joining the club from Schalke last summer. Thiaw and Tonali commented.

Tonali said, as per Italian website TMW after the game: “We conceded the ball more to Kane in the first half, he was the first problem in Tottenham’s action. The important thing was to shield him and then go out on all the others.”

Germany U21 captain Thiaw also commented, having helped Milan keep a crucial clean sheet at the San Siro: “Kane is a great player, but in the game you only think about playing. I tried to exploit certain situations to my advantage.”

Tonali and Thiaw explain how Milan coped with Tottenham striker Kane

Kane was good in patches but ultimately, Milan’s defence proved hard to beat. They did a superb job of keeping Kane quiet throughout the last 16 outing. Kane will be hoping for a bit more luck when the two meet in the second leg.

But that will have to parked, now. Spurs do not face Milan for three weeks, on February 8. Before then, they have four games – two crucial London derbies against West Ham and Chelsea. Then, Championship high flyers Sheffield United.

A crucial FA Cup game in a competition that presents Spurs with their best chance of a trophy this season. Then, a trip to Wolves before facing the likes of Olivier Giroud, Rafael Leao, Tonali and Thiaw. But Spurs are certainly still in the tie.