AC Milan's Antonio Cassano will not return this season, claims neurosurgeon

The 29-year-old Italy international has been out of action since November after undergoing heart surgery and talk that he might make a comeback in April seems wide of the mark

05-Feb-2012 1:39:56 PM

By Mark Doyle

More On :  Milan, Antonio Cassano
Antonio Cassano - Milan (Getty Images)
Getty Images
Antonio Cassano's neurosurgeon has ruled out the possibility of the striker returning to action before the end of the season.

There had been speculation that the AC Milan forward, who underwent heart surgery in November, could make his comeback in April, which would put him in contention to represent Italy in Euro 2012
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However, Nereo Bresolin insists that the 29-year-old will not play again this term.

“I think it is possible for him to be playing in June, but not before," he told Gazzetta dello Sport. "I heard some talk about April; it's too early.”

“He is progressing well and all according to plan. Let’s say the first phase of his rehabilitation has been completed.

"The tests showed there is still a trace of the stroke, but that is bound to disappear over time.

“There is a schedule that needs to be followed and the lad is still on blood-thinners, so he can only have solo training sessions for the moment. He cannot risk bruising or trauma.

“His positive spirit was evident right from the first day he arrived in hospital. He’s in good humour and the psychological aspect is very important during the recovery process.”

Cassano joined Milan last January from Sampdoria and had scored three goals in 2011-12 before he took ill after the Rossoneri's clash with Roma last October.

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