Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has leapt to the defence of Antonio Cassano following Friday's goalless draw.
Azzurri boss satisfied with forward's display
Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has leapt to the defence of forward Antonio Cassano following Friday's goalless draw with Northern Ireland.
The Azzurri failed to get past a determined home defence in their Euro 2012 Group C qualifier in Belfast, despite the efforts of Cassano and fellow forwards Marco Borriello and Simone Pepe.
But Prandelli is adamant he was satisfied with Cassano's display, insisting the Sampdoria man could not have done more.
"This Cassano is enough," said Prandelli on Saturday.
"I challenge analysts to find a player able to create about five goalscoring chances and pure assists as he did yesterday.
"He always played in the right position, putting the defence in difficulties. He satisfied me a lot."
He added: "Should his performances continue until 10 years from now, heaven knows where he will be playing."
The coach revealed he will start considering his line-up for Tuesday's clash with Serbia in Rome on Monday, with Giampaolo Pazzini likely to replace Borriello.
