Cassano to miss trip to Rome

Inter striker Antonio Cassano is out of his side’s game against Roma as worries continue to linger over his fitness.

The 30-year-old joins the likes of Diego Milito, Philippe Coutinho and Ricky Alvarez on the sidelines for Sunday’s Serie A game.

Coach Andrea Stramaccioni was desperate for his star man to be available, but admitted he must think about the player’s long-term health.

“We all hope to have him on the pitch, not only for his ability but also for the influence he has on the group. We do have to be very careful with him though,” he told Inter.it.

Cassano injured his thigh during the 3-2 Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Bologna on Tuesday.

The Nerazzurri travel to Rome fourth in the Serie A standings and seven points adrift of pace-setters Juventus and the 37-year-old expects an entertaining contest.

“It’s going to be a special and exciting match because both teams like to attack,” he said.

“I think we are over our worst moment, the league is very balanced and every game needs to be approached with great attention.”