Cassano set to hit back in Sampdoria row
When it was first confirmed that Sampdoria were opening proceedings to have Antonio Cassano's contract terminated after a row with president Riccardo Garrone regarding his refusal to attend an awards ceremony, the gifted forward was desperate to make amends.
He apologised on numerous occasions, joked that he would be drink a glass of the Sampdoria chief's petrol (he's an oil baron) for forgiveness and supposedly pleaded with captain Angelo Palombo to help him attempt to patch things up with Garrone, however it appears he has now admitted defeat.
Reports in Italy this weekend suggest that Cassano and his lawyers are considering a counter claim demanding €1 million compensation for the damage the falling out has done for his image. Quite where the man known as Fantantonio will go if his contract is ripped up is unclear.
There have been rumours that Cassano's desire to stay in Genoa, where he and his pregnant wife are settled, could see him join the Blucerchiati's fierce rivals Genoa, a prospect that their star striker Luca Toni talked up earlier this month.
Juventus, who are led by former Sampdoria coach Luigi Del Neri, have also been linked, while there have been less concrete claims that Manchester City and Liverpool could be tempted.
It's clear though that the situation is doing both parties great damage. Cassano has been dropped by Italy despite impressing for his country since being recalled by new boss Cesare Prandelli. Incidentally, there were intriguing inclusions in his squad to face Romania, such as Argentina-born Cristian Ledesma, rejuvenated midfielder Alberto Aquilani and former West Ham man Alessandro Diamanti.
Sampdoria are suffering on the field for the decision to freeze Cassano out too. Sunday's 0-0 draw at home to Chievo was their fourth successive match without scoring and many fans are blaming Garrone for the slump, and there was also a protest at their headquarters.
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Published: 15 Nov 2010
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