Cassano set to stay at Sampdoria after all
The most remarkable story of the weekend came over in Italy where Sampdoria began proceedings to terminate star player Antonio Cassano's contract after a falling out with president Riccardo Garrone.
The Blucerchiati were willing to lose one of their prize assets for absolutely nothing over what appeared a rather trivial row, with Cassano's refusal to attend an awards ceremony infuriating Garrone, who got into a confrontation to the Italy international in which Cassano supposedly swore at his employer.
The club are then thought to have offered the forward a chance to sign a written apology but he refused, prompting speculation that even if they couldn't get his contract cancelled, he would be sold in January, with Juventus and Manchester City among the expected suitors.
Cassano's team-mates ignored the turmoil to snatch a 1-0 victory away to Cesena, with his regular strike partner Giampaolo Pazzini securing the points with his first goal of the campaign in injury time, and the day got even better for Doria fans as Cassano then made a surprise move to calm the situation.
To his credit, the man often criticised for being a troublemaker stated that "I am very disappointed at what happened and have already apologised to President Garrone, who I care for very much, in front of my teammates."
In addition to hinting that the reason he snubbed the function was because he wants to spend as much time as possible with his pregnant wife, he dismissed claims that he was looking to leave the Marassi, adding that "if given the opportunity - it is my firm intention to remain at Sampdoria".
So is that the end of the matter, or will Garrone still attempt to offload his talisman in January? Would you want him in your team? Let us know below...
Published: 1 Nov 2010
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