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Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho has sidelined Brazilian striker Adriano ahead of the Serie A match away to Reggina because of a lack of professionalism.

The Italian media recently reported that Mourinho was angry with Adriano staying out socialising following last Sunday's disappointing 0-0 draw with Genoa.

The next morning the troubled Brazilian, who returned to Brazil last season to reboost his physique and his morale, is reported to have turned up late for training.

Mourinho subsequently left Adriano out of the team which drew 0-0 with Fiorentina on Wednesday, and on Friday the former Chelsea boss said he would not tolerate any player's unprofessional approach.

“In the last few months if there's someone who has tried to take care of him, not only as a coach but also as a colleague, it's definitely me,” Mourinho said Friday.

“But there comes a time, especially when you are in charge of a group of 29 players, that you can no longer afford to give someone special treatment or more liberties than any of the others.

“In my opinion, the principle of the group is fundamental. The players have to know that.”

During last Sunday's scoreless draw with Genoa, Adriano, 26, was conspicuous by his anonymity as a striker.

Mourinho added: “If someone were to ask me if I had a use for Adriano in our match tomorrow, I would say yes, but for me respecting the rules of being a professional is more important.”

This latest setback for Adriano comes only weeks after he said Mourinho, who took over at Inter at the start of the season, had given him back the joy of playing football.

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