'Theo Hernandez has been unwatchable and is a real problem for AC Milan' - Antonio Cassano unimpressed with France international's attitude

Following a run of sub-par performances, former Italy forward Antonio Cassano has questioned Theo Hernandez's continued status in AC Milan's starting lineup, terming the club captain as a "real problem" for the Rossoneri. Hernandez has struggled for form this season in what has been an underwhelming start to the campaign from Milan.

Hernandez has enjoyed a successful stint in Serie A ever since making the switch from Real Madrid in 2019. He established himself as one of the best left-backs in the world and was even rewarded with the captain's armband. His performances of late, though, have raised a lot of eyebrows. Reports from Italy mentioned that Milan are currently contemplating the future of their skipper after witnessing a radical drop-off in quality and output.

In fact, head coach Paulo Fonseca singled out Hernandez for his shoddy defending and lackadaisical body language after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Cagliari earlier this month. "You can't concede goals like that... Theo must improve defensively, and we are working to correct that," Fonseca told reporters.

Speaking to Viva el Futbol on Twitch (h/t Calciomercato), Cassano said: "Let's be clear, Theo Hernandez has been unwatchable for twelve games. He was that player who decided games on the left flank, made many runs and created a lot. Theo has been irritated and irritating since the beginning of the season, he is performing less. Many say that he is the best left-back in the world, so you have to do what you did with [Rafael] Leao. You are making mistakes, what is your problem? You have to face it. If you have problems, either you solve them with the club or [Filippo] Terracciano will play from tomorrow. I expect a reaction from Paulo Fonseca, a coach that I respect so much like. At this moment, Theo is a real problem for Milan."

There has been a lot of speculation surrounding Hernandez's future at AC Milan. Earlier this week, it was reported that Ruben Amorim admires the France international and wants to bring him to Manchester United next summer.

While Cassano has called for Hernandez to be benched in Milan's next game, he is likely to get the nod in the XI when they face Empoli at San Siro on Saturday.