Costacurta set to assist Ancelotti at Milan

MILAN, May 7 (Reuters) Experienced AC Milan defender Alessandro Costacurta is set to become an assistant to coach Carlo Ancelotti when he hangs up his boots at the end of the season, the club today said. Monday.

The 41-year-old Costacurta, who made his debut for Milan in 1986, will be joined in the backroom staff by former forward Leonardo.

''On Carlo's suggestion, Costacurta will become a second assistant coach to Ancelotti alongside Mauro Tassotti. Also from July 1, Leonardo will be back in the management team,'' Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani told the club Web site (www.milan.it).

Among Milan's other ageing defenders, Brazilian Cafu has signed a deal until the end of next season while Paolo Maldini's future is less clear.

The 38-year-old hinted earlier in the season that this would be his last campaign but has since said he wants to continue next season. He is currently trying to shrug off a knee injury ahead of the Champions League final with Liverpool on May 23.

REUTERS AKD BD1710