Italian mayor supports Cherries for AC Milan game

A town mayor who hails from Milan has said there will be no divided loyalties when his adopted home side, AFC Bournemouth, host AC Milan.

Bournemouth mayor Roberto Rocca insists, despite his family supporting the Italian visitors, he will be cheering mostly for the Cherries at Thursday's Europa League game.

The mayor, who has lived in Bournemouth for 13 years, called the tie a "fantastic opportunity".

He said: "I think it's happening once in your life, for Bournemouth having Milan playing here and for me to be the mayor when Bournemouth are in the European league as well."

Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, Rocca said: "There are a lot of Italian people living here and Bournemouth is a fantastic place to live and it's for that reason I decided to stay here 13 years ago and not move to London.

"Now Bournemouth is my home and my town so I will be the majority for Bournemouth. I hope they can progress in the European league this year.

"The family are probably for AC Milan but I am really proud for Milan and for Bournemouth as well.

"I hope the best can win and can progress but, of course, my heart now is mainly for Bournemouth.

"I would say vinca il migliore [may the best one win], best wishes for the best."