Milan striker Alexandre Pato is looking forward to linking up with the club's new signing Antonio Cassano in the second half of the season.

The 21-year-old Brazil international is still recovering from a muscle injury, but should be back soon after the winter break ends.

"I have missed nine games and I have scored six goals in the other eight," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "With this average, if I'd always played, I would have been on 12. More than Ibra…

"I am very calm and happy because I have started running hard again. I am on the way back. I don't see any reason to make a drama out of it. I believe that the injuries can be put down to my growth.

"I have put on kilos and gained in centimetres, and I want to [grow] more. Football in Italy is tough and being robust is fundamental.

"I can't wait for the New Year to arrive, but 2010 isn't one to throw away. I met Massimiliano Allegri, who is a great Coach. I have scored many goals. I am a regular for Brazil. Now I only want to start all over again without the injuries and play the second half of the season without stopping myself anymore.

"I want a 2011 with many goals to help Milan win."

Looking ahead to playing alongside Cassano, Pato said: "He is an extraordinary player who will give us a big help in trying to win. We will enjoy ourselves and do well together.

"I am happy for Antonio's arrival. It's like having another Brazilian in the team."

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