BITTERSWEET SYMPATHY

AC MILAN chief Massimiliano Mirabelli claims he feels “sorry for Arsenal” after the pair were drawn together in the Europa League.

Technical director Mirabelli said: “I’m sorry for Arsenal, who I’m sure would have liked to have continued in Europe.

“It would have been a nice final, but I’m happy. It’s best to face a big club like Arsenal now. We needed opponents like these.”

The Gunners face a showdown in the San Siro on March 8 with the return at the Emirates a week later.

Arsenal legend Ray Parlour said: “Tough one – but a great trip for the fans.”