Ronaldinho promises to fill Milan's Kaka gap

Ronaldinho has vowed to lessen the impact of Kaka's departure by having a "great season" for AC Milan.

The Brazilian playmaker was responding to quotes from owner Silvio Berlusconi over the weekend that called him a "great champion".

Many fans were dismayed at Kaka's high-profile departure but Ronaldinho is vowing to step up his efforts for the Rossoneri and help mount a serious challenge for the Scudetto.

After Milan's comfortable pre-season victory over local side Varese he said: "I want to have a great season and dedicate my efforts to the president.

"I also want to guarantee the fans that I have the right mentality to become a great champion once again."

Ronaldinho had an indifferent campaign last year, making just 16 starts and suffering a slump in form after the Christmas period.

As the club rebuild after coach Carlo Ancelotti's departure, Ronaldinho has also urged the club to sign Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano.

He said: "It would be a great addition, he is a great player and we could form a wonderful trio along with [Alexandre] Pato."