There has always been the rise and fall of many footballers, and we can't always explain why this is so. It could be the club, the possible change of country (if they have changed), possible feuds with team mates or coaches, personal problems, or just plain bad luck.

However, three years ago a young star outshone all the highly rated youngsters, and this boy from Biella's name was Alberto Gilardino. The rising star of Parma, at the tender age of 22, couldn't stop scoring and bagged 23 goals in two consecutive seasons. He was a fans' favourite, saving Parma from relegation as he scored the goal to keep them in Serie A for at least another season.

His humble personality and his willingness never to give up saw him join the Mighty Milan for a staggering 17 million euros. He was brought in to replace Hernan Crespo, and he inherited the number 11 shirt. Many fans were excited about this transfer as Milan managed to net the brightest star out there, and Milan fans where hoping to see his famous goal celebration when he mimes playing a violin.

Gila had a good first season with the Rossoneri as he managed to score 17 goals. Not bad when you consider that he is playing alongside Andriy Shevchenko. He remained calm and never let his big money move inhibit his abilities to score.

But this season has been a struggle for the ex-Parma man, and the reason is not clear. It can't have been because he has become big-headed all of a sudden. No, Gila is a quiet man who doesn't argue and is very level headed. What could it have been?

Gila is a notorious starter to the season and this time fans had to wait until the ninth game for his first goal. Extra added pressure could have been a factor as the transfer window saw Milan loose Shevchenko (their second highest goal scorer in history) to Chelsea, adding more pressure on Gila, Milan weren't able to make substantial transfers due to the Calciopoli verdicts.

Fatigue played a roll too, as Gilardino was part of Italy's World Cup winning squad. And qualification for Champions League saw all the World Cup winners back from only a one-week holiday, to train for the start of a new season.

Gila also suffered a bad injury during an inhospitable return to the old ground where he was treasured by most. He later suffered a horrible ankle injury after a clash with a Lazio player that sidelined him for a few games.

Gila was then dragged into a gay photo scandal that rocked his confidence and sparked rumours of a break-up between him and his wife Alice. Gila hit an all time low, his confidence was down and talk of a transfer was rife.

Yet, he still remained loyal to the famous shirt of Milan, and never once said anything bad about it. He wanted to stay and answer his critics. He did that in fine style, by lifting Milan out of their slump in December and he hasn't stopped. He has bagged 12 goals this season in Serie A, and 15 in all competitions.

His dedication and hard work hasn't fully been rewarded yet, as people still criticise him. But the factors have to be considered. Yes, Gila's violin is quiet and it is somed time since we have seen a viruoso performance. But it would be a mistake to count him out. He didn't become a World Cup winner overnight, and he didn't join the best club in the world for no reason. There is talent in the boy from Biella and, given faith, he will hand you goals, and music!

He isn't quite finished yet, and when times are tough for the team you can always count on Gila to be there to save the game.

Is there still a tune in the Milan fiddle? We want to hear from you at Sportingo.