By Paul Holmes
June 25 2002

Portmsouth have released defender Alessandro Zamperini from his contract with immediate effect. The 20-year-old was signed last summer from Serie A giants Roma but despite a good initial start at Fratton Park Zamperini struggled with the pace of 1st Division football.

Portsmouth boss Harry Redkanpp spoke to the clubs official web-site.

"Alessandro wanted to go back to Italy where his father owns a restaurant and he goes with my very best wishes.

"He is not fixed up with another team yet but I am sure it won't be too long before he is.

"I have a lot of central defenders at my disposal and given that Alessandro wanted to go back home, combined with all the choices I have, made it common sense for him to do so."