Andrii Shevchenko, who two years ago converted the crucial spot-kick for Milan in their Champions League penalty shootout victory over Juventus, admits there is a different moood in the Italians camp this time around.

“It is a different experience than the one before Manchester,” Shevchenko said recently.

“For many of us, that was our first final and so there was a different build-up. There was a special tension and intense excitement.

“Now, two years on, we are more used to handling such situations because between Manchester and Istanbul we have had a lot of big games and enjoyed a lot of success,” said the Ukrainian, who was part of Milan’s Italian title-winning side last season.

“Against Juventus we had to prove our strength. Now we take on Liverpool knowing we are a strong side – that is a major difference,” he said.

Shevchenko’s goalscoring exploits for Milan were recognised last year when he was voted European Footballler of the Year. His success, combined with his growing maturity have helped the Ukrainian striker to adopt a more laid back approach to life.

“The important thing is that we can go into this game calmly,” he added.

“Obviously, there is pressure which comes from such an important event as a Champions League final – it is the biggest night in European football.

“But we also need to remember that it is only a match. You have more chance of winning if you keep that in mind,” he says.