Milan recorded a much-needed win in beating Genoa 1-0 to move into the top half of the Serie A on Saturday.

Stephan El Shaarawy's sixth league goal of the season on his 20th birthday handed Milan only its third win in nine matches.

The young striker refused to celebrate and left the field at the end of the game with tears in his eyes. El Shaarawy spent almost his entire youth career at Genoa, where he also made his Serie A debut.

"I'm a bit moved, it's been the best birthday of my life. I'm emotional and happy, both with the victory and the goal," El Shaarawy said. "Is this my Milan? I'm happy people are saying that. I'm just trying to give my all and put myself at the disposal of the coach.

"Maybe I've helped (Massimiliano) Allegri, there have been so many stories about him, but I don't think he was ever in doubt because the club has always shown its confidence in the coach."

Milan also had two decent penalty claims turned down in an otherwise dull match at San Siro.

There was still plenty to worry about for coach Allegri, not least in defense, which again looked shaky. However, he was still at the helm following reports he was facing the axe if Milan failed to win.

"It's a deserved victory," Allegri said. "Up until now the criticism has been excessive considering what the lads have done on the pitch. We could have scored in the first half, there were several dubious penalty incidents, we also made several mistakes in our passing. Today, there was a difficult atmosphere so I'm happy the lads reacted.

"I was very calm because the team had always put on good performances. We need to find confidence, especially in front of goal. With goals everything becomes easier."

Genoa remains mired in difficulty as new coach Luigi Del Neri's reign got off to a miserable start. It has gone five games without a win.

Earlier, strugglers Siena and Palermo played out a dull goalless draw.