Defender Daniele Bonera praised Milan's performance in their 2-0 win over Siena at San Siro on Saturday.
Massimilano Allegri's team met strong resistance from Giuseppe Sannino's players, but ultimately bagged the three points, courtesy of a fine strike by Antonio Nocerino and a penalty by Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Bonera,30, underlined his side's determination and ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
"It was a difficult game. Siena defended well, but we managed to show character, and it was much easier after the goal," the defender told Sky Sports.
The former Parma man, who played at right back, said while he prefers to play in the centre of the defence, he is ready to help fill any holes at the back.
"I consider myself a centre-half. I hope I can be given a chance at that position. However, I am always available to help out wide, if the coach wants me to," Bonera said.
He also spoke about the league standings, after Milan went top.
"Now we have to wait and see how the others (Juventus and Udinese) fare, we are first for tonight."
Milan have a one-point lead in Serie A, but Juventus can leapfrog them with a positive result against Novara on Sunday.