Real seek apology from Cassano, patience from Ronaldo

Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano should apologise to the club for his spat with coach Fabio Capello, sporting director Predrag Mijatovic said on Friday.

The Italian international insulted Capello after being left out for last weekend's 3-1 Primera Liga win over Gimnastic, according to Spanish media reports.

Capello, who had run-ins with the 24-year-old when they were together at AS Roma, fined Cassano and barred him from training with the first team.

"What has happened with Cassano is an unfortunate situation for us and for the player," Mijatovic told Spanish media.

"I would like it if he would apologise to the club in the next few days. It is up to him."

Despite making a promising start to the season, Cassano has appeared in only four of the club's eight league games.

Mijatovic also tried to smooth the situation with Brazil striker Ronaldo, who has spoken of his frustration at his lack of first-team opportunities.

Ronaldo has only played 100 minutes of football for Real this season.

"It is up to the player because the coach has already said he wants him in his plans," Mijatovic said.

"I am sure he will have more opportunities to demonstrate his abilities in the near future."

Real, who are third in the league, host Celta Vigo at the Bernabeu on Sunday.