M.Lippi does not intend to wait for A.Cassano © EuroFootball.com

Italian national team coach Marcello Lippi warned that he is not going to wait forever for this "Roma" player until his contract issues are resolved.

"Antonio is not in the 'Azzuri' squad because he hasn't played at the club level this season," said the Italian national team coach. "I don't know the exact reasons why 'Roma' is not letting him play, but until the situation changes, I cannot allow him to play for the national team. I cannot wait for him indefinitely."

A.Cassano was one of the most impressive players in the 2004 European Championship and had a key role in the 2006 World Cup, but contract issues with the club could become crucial for the World Cup.

A.Cassano's contract ends at the end of this "Serie A" season, but "giallorossi" threaten to continue not allowing him to play unless he signs a new contract or agrees to leave for Milan's "Inter" in January.

Meanwhile, Cassano himself hopes to become a free agent and choose a club. It is believed that the Italian would like to move to Turin's "Juventus" this summer.

A meeting with former coach Bruno Conti did not help decide, but it is hoped that Cassano will play for "Roma" against "Messina" this Sunday.