Riccardo Montolivo has claimed that meeting Real Madrid in a friendly can give a big boost to AC Milan during the winter break.

Filippo Inzaghi's side take on Real Madrid in the Dubai Cup on Tuesday, and Montolivo is hopeful that the game against the Champions League winners will allow the team to learn more about what they can do in the second half of the season.

"This game can give the team a big lift," the Italian midfielder told reporters. "I think it's a great 'training' match if I may say so because, when you face teams like Milan and Real Madrid, there are no friendly matches.

"It will also be a good test to see where we are when we come back from the winter break. We've been lacking a bit of consistency, but it's normal for a team that is rebuilding.

"I believe that we've seen steps forward recently in terms of solidity and the group, and the match with Real Madrid is an excellent chance to test ourselves once again."

Milan are currently seventh in Serie A after just two wins in their last six games.