Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella has defended his decision to start with Stevan Jovetic against AC Milan in Serie A this afternoon.

Jovetic was a doubt to make the starting XI and managed just 45 minutes before hobbling off with a persistent thigh problem.

Montella is adamant that his forward was fit to play and was desperate to feature in the important clash against their rivals for Champions League qualification.

He told Sky Italia: "He tried and he seemed to be in good shape. I wanted to run the risk, as I knew how important this game was for us. We hope it's not too serious.

"Nobody made a mistake with Jovetic. Everyone evaluated the situation and took their own share of the risks and responsibility, so there is no problem."

La Viola managed to secure a 2-2 draw without their influential striker, scoring two late penalties in a topsy-turvy match.