Italy mulling calling up Cassano for World Cup

Antonio Cassano in action for Parma. (Paolo Giovannini/AP)

MILAN, Italy — Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has hinted he is considering recalling veteran forward Antonio Cassano to the national team for the 2014 World Cup.

Cassano has not played for Italy since the Azzurri’s 4-0 defeat to Spain in the final of the 2012 European Championship.

Prandelli says “after the Euros, we looked ahead. Antonio was 30 and it was thought that other players could develop. If these players have not grown as we expected, and if one plays better at 32 than at 30, why not?”

Cassano has scored 11 league goals for Parma this season, helping it to sixth spot as the club enjoys its best season in recent years.

The former Inter and AC Milan striker has scored 10 times in 35 appearances for Italy.

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