AC Milan's Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato is all set to start against Barcelona in the Champions League group stages. The group containing both AC Milan and Barcelona is thought to be one of the toughest in the Champions League this season.

It has proven to be the case as Barcelona have found it extremely difficult to shake off AC Milan, who trail the Spaniards by just two points. It is a gap that can be closed with a win over Barcelona, as the Champions League group stages resume after the international break. Milan will be at home to Barcelona and the thought is that the Italians will be able to utilise the home advantage much better than in recent seasons.

Barcelona failed spectacularly a few seasons ago at the San Siro, but it was against José Mourinho's Inter Milan side. Massimiliano Allegri will be keen to study the victory that Inter Milan achieved over Barcelona at home a few seasons ago. It would be proving to be an inspirational object for the team, who are third in the Italian Serie A table. Like Barcelona, AC Milan also have an eye on winning the League this season. They trail leaders Juventus by just one point, although they have played a game more than their rivals. As Massimiliano Allegri looks to beat Barcelona, he is boosted by the news that Alexandre Pato is all set to return to the first-team.

The Brazilian striker has been out of the first-team action for more than two months now. Even though in his absence they have been able to cope due to the presence of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Robinho, his return will definitely add some steel to the attack. He scored in the Camp Nou to give AC Milan a memorable draw.