AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri refuses to rush Antonio Cassano's recovery.

Ahead of today's game with Bologna, Allegri denied reports Cassano would be given his first start since undergoing heart surgery at the end of October.

"We are without Massimo Ambrosini, Alexandre Pato, Thiago Silva and Kevin-Prince Boateng. Cassano has not played in a long time, although he is making important progress. I am happy for him, Milan and the Italy squad."