Cassano likely to make bench against Fiorentina, says Allegri

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has stated that there is a good chance that Antonio Cassano will make his comeback from injury in Saturday's Serie A clash against Fiorentina and the player has subsequently been included in the 19-man match squad.

The Italy international was recently given the green light to play after a lengthy absence due to heart surgery, and Cassano will probably start the match at San Siro from the bench.

"Antonio is fine physically. He has so much class and this can compensate for a lack of match rhythm," Allegri stated at a press conference.

"Will he make the squad for the game against Fiorentina? I will decide after [Friday's] training, but there is a good chance he will be called up and start from the bench."

Allegri then went on to discuss the situation of forward Alexandre Pato, who picked up a thigh injury in the 3-1 loss versus Barcelona on Tuesday and will be out of action for the remainder of the 2011-12 campaign.

"He is currently being treated and will do his utmost to return as soon as possible. Everybody is sorry for these injuries.

"I always want to look at the bright side of things and I think that Pato will definitely return to the level of a few years ago. He will do whatever he can to be ready for next season."