AC Milan defender, Thiago Silva, wants his team to go on the offensive before thinking about defending.

The Brazilian star has formed a solid partnership at the back alongside Alessandro Nesta but the Milan attack has not been as sharp.

Thiago refuses to look back at the club's poor start to the season and chooses to focus on the upcoming game against Napoli.

Speaking to the Milan Channel, Thiago said:"Napoli are a great team with quality players who can make a difference,

"We have to go to the San Paolo to play the game with personality, always respecting the opposition. This doesn't mean staying shut off in defence, but to attack like we did in the Bernabeu.

"To attack the opponent - this is the secret of the last few results."

He went on to praise his teammates for their tough away win at the weekend against Chievo, having gone behind early in the match before Nesta stepped up to win it for Milan with a brace.

He said:"The team showed great character. We are starting to grow. It's a very important time for us, a moment in which we are all very focused. You could see this in the game against Chievo.

"The way in which we reacted showed how the team is together on and off the field. Dida's intervention saved the game - the hugs after the match showed the unity of the team and that Milan is a big family."

Lastly, the giant defender paid tribute to his defensive partner, Nesta, who has helped the youngster settle in quickly at Milan.

Thiago exclaimed: "He is an incredible player, I don't have the words to describe him. I really enjoy playing alongside him - it gives me a lot of confidence. I hope to be able to play with him in Milan's defence for a long time."