Antonio Cassano told the ANSA news agency: "What happened does not take into account the particular moment I am going through with my wife," 

"If I want to stay as close to her as possible, in accordance with my many working commitments, then there must be a reason.

"I don't want to make it public right now, as it is my private family issue. The events described by the media were angled with a clear intent to put me in a bad light and they have managed it yet again.

"They do not take into account what happened beforehand, or how many times I have explained to people close to me that I am going through a very special moment with my life.

"I am very disappointed at what happened and have already apologised to president Garrone, who I care for very much, in front of my teammates."

"I read that this whole affair might have been linked to transfer speculation, but I confirm that - if given the opportunity - it is my firm intention to remain at Sampdoria."