Pulisic scores twice and sets up a goal as Milan beat Udinese 3-0

Christian Pulisic scored twice and set up a third as AC Milan defeated Udinese 3-0 in Serie A on Saturday evening at the Stadio Friuli, returning to the starting lineup and driving Milan to a third straight league win. The United States international opened the scoring just before halftime, teed up Youssouf Fofana almost immediately after the break, then added a second goal early in the second half to seal a comfortable victory for the Rossoneri.

Pulisic had been managed carefully in recent weeks after a minor ankle problem and international duty left him on the bench for Milan's previous two matches. Coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed at Friday's press conference that Pulisic was fit to start and that key players Mike Maignan and Rafael Leao would be unavailable. Allegri said the American "is much better" and that he would decide whether to start him, noting Pulisic can play 30, 60 or 90 minutes and is an impactful presence when on the pitch.

With Maignan sidelined, Pietro Terracciano made a full competitive debut in goal, while Strahinja Pavlovic returned to the back three. Milan lined up with a midfield of Youssouf Fofana, Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot, and Pulisic occupied...