Italy coach Antonio Mata apologizes for apparent homophobic comments . Cassano quoted as saying : ` ` I hope there are n't any queers in the national team . '' Comments sparked outrage amongst gay rights activists . Cassano issues statement , saying : ` ` Homophobia is not a thing I feel . I did n't want to offend anyone . ''
Italy striker Antonio Cassano apologizes for apparent homophobic comments . Cassano quoted as saying : `` I hope there are n't any queers in the national team . '' Comments sparked outrage amongst gay rights groups . Cassano issues statement , saying : `` Homophobia is not a sentiment I feel . I did n't want to offend anyone . ''