Maldini hoping class will tell

Paolo Maldini is relishing the prospect of his eighth Champions League semi-final and facing Manchester United's gifted winger Cristiano Ronaldo.

But the veteran AC Milan skipper has dismissed suggestions he will be shadowing the PFA Player of the Year at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

Maldini, 38, said: "We do not man-mark, we have a different way of marking. Ronaldo moves around a lot so he will be picked up by whoever is close to him."

Maldini has nothing but admiration for the young Portuguese player.

"Ronaldo is fast, strong and scores goals," said the influential defender. "He is good in the air and extremely inventive. While I may not be as fast as I once was, I can still get around the pitch."

Maldini insists Milan will not go the way of Italian rivals Roma, who were demolished 7-1 by United in the second leg of their quarter-final.

He remains keen to win the big prizes despite the clock ticking down on a glorious career.

Maldini added: "I have a great passion for the game. That keeps me playing at this age. I'm very proud to be captain and delighted to be playing in matches like the one coming up.

"All the players are motivated by the fact we want to win the Champions League. That has been our prime objective this season. We have a great deal of experience and class.

"Manchester United are better than they were two years ago but we are there with them and up to the task."