Alberto Gilardino has insisted that he’s no cheat despite failing to get his now infamous handball ban overturned.
The Italian international was handed the suspension this week after netting against Palermo last Sunday night with his forearm.
Despite pleading that the gesture was accidental, Gilardino – who celebrated the strike with some vigour – missed the Inter draw in midweek and will also sit out Sunday’s Tuscan derby against Siena.
“Although I was given a ban, I don’t feel like an unsporting player,” defended the Italian international striker.
“I think I have illustrated during my 10-year Serie A career that I am a correct and honest man on the field of play.”
Gilardino is currently at the top of the Serie A scoring charts thanks to his seven strikes so far and he’s again defended his last effort at the Barbera.
“I tried to score with my foot at Palermo and the fact that the ball hit my arm and went in was totally accidental,” he insisted.
“Nevertheless, I accepted the punishment with serenity in the same manner as I have done through all of my career.”
