Cassano was the surprise inclusion in Roberto Donadoni’s 23-man
squad for the Euros, as he was preferred to Milan hitman Pippo
Inzaghi.
While few doubt the genius of the Sampdoria forward, many feel his
presence is a huge risk given his volatile personality and that his
bad boy ways could damage the unity in the camp.
These fears may start to be realised after Cassano went berserk
during a training session in Austria. The 25-year-old reacted
furiously to a fair tackle from defender Giorgio Chiellini, before
then proceeding to aim a volley of obscenities at the Juve
defender, who is still said to be deeply upset after the challenge
on Tuesday that has ruled captain Fabio Cannavaro out of the
tournament.
Cassano didn’t stop there, as just minutes later he threw himself
into an X-rated tackle on another defender Andrea Barzagli.
Fortunately the new Wolfsburg man escaped unhurt.
Coach Roberto Donadoni was forced to step in to calm an agitated
Cassano down, but tempers continued to fray in the changing rooms
after training, with many players angry with Cassano’s
conduct.
While the incident is now said to be forgotten, the Bari-native’s
behaviour is certainly a cause of concern at this difficult time
following the massive injury loss of Cannavaro.
