AC Milan forward Antonio Cassano today moved a step closer towards resuming his playing career after a positive meeting with a panel of medical experts.

The 29-year-old has been out of action since being hospitalised after feeling unwell following Milan's 3-2 victory at Roma on 29 October.

The Italy international underwent successful heart surgery a week later.

A ten-man medical commission requested by the Serie A club to the Italian Sports Medicine Federation analysed Cassano's condition in Milan this morning, and the former Bari player now just needs final clearance before he can return to the pitch.

A statement from Milan read: "The Italian Sports Medicine Federation have today expressed a favourable opinion regarding Antonio Cassano's health.

"Milan's Medical Sports Institute and Milan's chief medical officer Rodolfo Tavana will now have the final decision on whether the player can return to play."

Cassano returned to training with his team-mates last Thursday.