Former AC Milan defender Taribo West has declared he was a better player than Rossoneri legend Paolo Maldini.

The Nigerian international joined the Diavolo from city rivals Inter in 1999, but went on to make just four appearances in two years with the club.

“There was stiff competition then for places involving me, Maldini and [Alessandro] Costacurta and [Alberto] Zaccheroni chose to go with the Italians even when it was clear that I was the best,” West told supersport.com.

“At that time, Nigeria was involved at the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations. I missed part of the season because I was with the Super Eagles at the tournament.

“When I came back to Milan from the Nations Cup, Maldini was injured so I duly took over his position in the team. I was fantastic in the games I played in his position but certain people were not happy and the reaction I received was not pleasant.

“I was told that Maldini has a godfather at the club and that no one could just come in and kick him out of the first-team.

“I always had a good relationship with [Inter president, Massimo]Moratti so I discussed my situation with him but he told me what I was going through was normal at Milan.

“Moratti told me that no one could take Maldini’s position at Milan and I was shocked.

“They told lies against me to force me out of the club. They claimed I had a heart condition similar to that of Nwankwo Kanu but I was able to play four league games and score one goal even from my withdrawn position.

“I was man-of-the-match in the four games I played for Milan that season but they refused to renew my contract at the end of the season.”