Antonio Cassano loses weight to bolster World Cup chances

Antonio Cassano has revealed that he has "lost 10kg" in a bid to force his way into the Italy squad for this summer's World Cup.

The 31-year-old, who scored twice as Parma defeated AC Milan 4-2 yesterday, put the drop in weight down to his avoidance of focaccine, which is an oven-baked bread.

"I can't do better than this. I've lost 10kg to go to Brazil. I'm on a diet and I've stopped eating focaccine, except for once a week," he said. "I don't know if there's still a chance but I'm doing everything to give Prandelli something to think about."

Cassano has not been picked by Italy coach Cesare Prandelli since Euro 2012.