Cassano nears return after heart surgery

AC Milan striker Antonio Cassano yesterday moved a step closer towards resuming his playing career after a positive meeting with a panel of medical experts.

The 29-year-old Italian international has been out of action since being hospitalised after feeling unwell following Milan’s 3-2 victory at Roma on October 29.

The player subsequently underwent successful heart surgery a week later and has been recuperating ever since.

A 10-man medical commission requested by the Serie A club to the Italian Sports Medicine Federation analysed Cassano’s condition in Milan and the former Bari player now just needs final clearance before he can make his full return to action.

A statement from Milan read: “The Italian Sports Medicine Federation have today expressed a favourable opinion regarding Antonio Cassano’s health.

“Milan’s Medical Sports Institute and Milan’s chief medical officer Rodolfo Tavana will now have the final decision on whether the player can return to play.”

Cassano returned to training with his team-mates last Thursday.