AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has said that Antonio Cassano was having his best season ever before suffering a stroke last month.

The Italy international has since undergone successful heart surgery and is expected to be out for up to six months.

Speaking ahead of this weekend's clash with Catania, Allegri had nothing but praise for his striker, who had scored five goals this season and set up six.

"The important thing is that the operation went well and the medics are confident that he can return in four to six months," said the Milan manager.

"It is going to be a very difficult game as Catania are in excellent form.

"We hope to have him back as soon as possible. He was in my view having the best season of his career."

Milan are in fourth place in Serie A, two points adrift of leaders Juventus.