Italy team manager Gigi Riva admits Sampdoria striker Antonio Cassano is upset over claims he has not played at full throttle due to injury.

Cassano limped off during the final minutes of the Champions League play-off against Werder Bremen and was again forced off the field in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Lazio.

There were fears he'd have to abandon the Azzurri camp ahead of the Euro 2012 qualifiers with a back injury, but he is training to be fit in time.

"I saw that Cassano was irritated at the rumours aimed at underplaying his injury," revealed team manager Riva.

"He is doing better today. Cesare Prandelli and his staff will do everything possible to get him ready for the games."