AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli was left delighted with his young players for their Coppa Italia win against Cagliari.

Milan won their round of 16 tie last night 4-1, with Luka Jovic (2), Chaka Toure on debut and Rafaal Leao scoring.

“I wouldn't say this went beyond expectations, because when you prepare with a good squad, you always hope for the best," Pioli told Mediaset.

“Obviously, a few lads were a bit nervous at the start, but once we broke the ice it became much easier. These kids have quality, talent, but above all an excellent attitude that they must stick with.

“It isn't to be taken for granted, sometimes it's easier to train the younger players than the older ones, sometimes the other way around, but their attitude shows the Milan youth academy is working really well.

“The young players are proving they can have their say, so they will not just be considered emergency options, but actual alternatives when needed. That is a success for the club."

He added: “I continue to believe that Luka has a lot of quality and he has to believe in himself more, work with more fire inside, because he has what it takes to be a great player. Naturally, he had a rough summer, arrived without playing, but now he is in good shape physically and mentally.

“He has quality in the box, can play with others too, so it's up to him to have that ambition."