Milan are third in the table, three points behind city rivals Inter and two adrift of Roma with seven matches remaining.

However, Inter are still involved in the Champions League and Coppa Italia, while Roma are also competing in the domestic cup competition.

And Abate, speaking ahead of tomorrow's match at Cagliari, believes that could be beneficial for the Rossoneri as they chase another Serie A title.

The 23-year-old told his club's TV channel: "Now we are at a critical point of the season and we have the possibility of managing these seven weeks at our best.

"We can prepare for one game a week, something which Inter and Roma cannot do. We must remain behind them to keep the pressure on and see what happens."

Abate continued: "Three points separate three teams - that is not a lot and we believe.

"We can't have any regrets in May. We have done well this season but now it's clear that our objective is the top spot.

"Our season did not start in the best way, then the results arrived, then there was a dip, which was psychological I think."

Ignazio considers Cagliari tough opponents. The 12th-placed Sardinian side have won seven home matches this season and Abate believes the fact they are playing without pressure can work in their favour.

He continued: "Cagliari have reached their minimum objective. They are a team who do not have pressure on.

"They are also young and with a lot of running and they are well-organised from the tactical point of view, it will not be easy."

Ronaldinho is expected to resume his position on the left side of attack for the visitors, while goalkeeper Christian Abbiati is expected to have a late fitness test - he will replace Dida if fit. Andrea Pirlo is available but fellow midfielder Mathieu Flamini is suspended.

The hosts are struggling for form, with last week's draw at Sampdoria ending a run of three successive defeats.

A little more than a month ago the Sardinian side were harbouring European dreams, but they are without a win since February 21.

Rossoblu president Massimo Cellino will be looking for an improved home performance. He was hoping his club would win their last home match two weeks ago, promising fans he would reimburse the cost of their tickets if their team failed to beat Lazio - but they lost 2-0.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri's recent selection worries are easing, although striker Anderson Nene is suspended - Jedaias Jeda should return at his expense.

Central defender Andrea Parola remains sidelined by injury but Andrea Lazzarri is fit to return and is expected to replace Simone Barone on the left side of a three-man midfield.

Allegri, who this week refuted suggestions he was in contention for the Azzurri job following this summer's World Cup, may make another couple of changes as he bids to end his side's dismal recent run of form.