Former Juventus coach Gigi del Neri has paid tribute to Antonio Cassano.

Cassano, formerly of AC Milan, Inter and Real Madrid, announced his retirement last week.

Del Neri told RMC: "A judgment on his career? He's already said everything about him. But this period with Virtus Entella made him understand that he had no more desire to play.

"Cassano is a guy with great qualities, he had this career because of the character he has. He is a correct and respectful person and I must say that I have always had a good relationship with him and together we have done important things with Sampdoria.

"Cassano in terms of technique and quality had few rivals."