Panucci wants out at Roma

Roma defender Christian Panucci could be on the brink of leaving the Giallorossi after reacting negatively to being left out of the starting XI for Sunday's 3-0 victory at Napoli.

Panucci was named among the substitutes but refused to take up his place on the bench and watched the match from the Stadio San Paolo stands instead.

The 35-year-old, who was in the midst of negotiations to extend his contract, later announced that he wants to leave the capital club.

After the game director Daniele Prade revealed that the club will come down hard on the player.

"Panucci should have started on the bench," he told Rai Sport. "But then he went to the stands because he didn't accept this choice.

"Inside the dressing room we tried to tell him the rules and we didn't like Panucci's action.

"He will be fined."

Panucci has been a key player for Roma since moving from Inter in 2001.

The former Italy defender later confirmed his decision to head for the Stadio Olimpico exit door.

"I've decided, I'm leaving Roma," Panucci told Sky Sport. "I don't feel respected by (coach Luciano) Spalletti.

"I've spent eight splendid years at Roma. I haven't had any contact with other clubs yet."

Panucci is set to meet with Roma officials in the next few days to discuss events and clarify his future with the Giallorossi.

Source: Sporting Life