AC Milan can qualify for Champions League, says Diego Lopez

goal.com
The 33-year-old thinks that Filippo Inzaghi's men possess the ability to finish in the upper echelons of Serie A and qualify for next season's Champions League
Diego Lopez feels that AC Milan have the quality to secure a top-three finish in Serie A this season.

The goalkeeper joined the Rossoneri from Real Madrid in August and has established himself as the first-choice No.1 despite spending a month on the sidelines shortly after signing.

Having beaten Napoli at the weekend, Milan moved to within two points of third-placed Lazio, and the 33-year-old now believes his side can push on and challenge for a place in next season's Champions League.

"Yes, of course [we can finish in the top three], but it will be tough. There are plenty of teams who have Champions League ambitions," Lopez said to Tuttosport.

"Napoli remain perhaps the most credible rival, but Inter and Fiorentina are ascending. Genoa and Lazio are also playing very well."

With the aim set out, Lopez feels that the Rossoneri's trip to face second-placed Roma on Sunday provides them with an opportunity to test themselves against one of the league's best and improve as a team.

"For us it will be a great opportunity to continue on the path of growth," he added.

"After beating Napoli, we will have to go to the Olimpico and look for three points. It will not be be easy, but we will try even though we face a team that will fight Juventus for the title until the end."

The keeper has not conceded in his last three outings, and he harbours hope that playing consistently for the Serie A outfit will enhance his chances of earning a place in the Spain squad.

"The national team? I was unfortunate, with [Iker] Casillas, [Victor] Valdes, [Pepe] Reina and [David] De Gea.

"Maybe playing with continuity in Milan will help me go to the Euro 2016."