Ghanaian midfielder Sulley Muntari has been dropped from Inter Milan's squad after a furious bust up with new coach Leonardo after he was substituted in the midweek.
The midfielder was visibly furious when he walked very slowly off the field for his substitution in the 3-2 Coppa Italia victory over Genoa.
It is also reported that Muntari hurled abuse at assistant manager Beppe Baresi once he did leave the pitch.
The Ghana international has been dropped from the squad to face Bologna on Saturday.
Inter coach, Leonardo, insists the Ghanaian has been dropped for the game against Bologna and has not ruled out the midfielder leaving the club. “There is no Muntari problem,†assured Leonardo.
“Muntari is important for the squad, not just as a player, but also as part of the group dynamic. The players love him and try to protect him.
“I spoke to him very clearly: the important thing is to maintain this hunger and enthusiasm, then after that come the tactical choices.
“He is not called up right now, as for the moment he needs to do specialised training, but he must also look at his situation and decide what he wants. Whatever happens will be for the good of Inter.â€
Muntari has received numerous offers from the Premier League and would like a return after his Portsmouth spell in 2007-08.
“Against Genoa there was the expression of a sentiment that could’ve been tied to many things. He wasn’t just angry with me, but rather angry with himself and frustration at not being able to do things,†continued Leonardo.
“Now he must decide what to do. If he does remain, it will be to make choices tougher for me and prove himself. These are important times for a player.â€