Napoli are considering taking legal action against Romelu Lukaku after the striker failed to report for training.
Tensions have grown between Lukaku and the Serie A club after he spent the international break in Belgium while recovering from injury.
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And that has left club officials frustrated with reports claiming there had been a significant fallout between the two parties.
Napoli release strong statement
A club statement released on Tuesday read: “SSC Napoli can confirm that Romelu Lukaku did not respond to today’s call to return to training.
“The club reserves the right to consider taking the appropriate disciplinary action.
“As well as to determine whether the player will continue to train with the team for an indefinite period.”
Rumours circulated that Lukaku had decided to receive treatment for his injury away from the club and without permission of Napoli’s medical team.
And that has angered the Serie A club, who were anticipating his return after he withdrew from the Belgium squad for this month’s internationals.
But the 32-year-old quickly poured cold water on suggestions he is looking for a way out of the club by confessing his commitment to the Napoli cause.
Lukaku’s address to the fans
In his own statement geared towards the fans, Lukaku wrote: “This season has been very challenging for me, between the injury and personal loss.
“I know there has been a lot of noise over the last few days about my situation and it is important to clarify everything.
“The truth is that in recent weeks I didn’t feel well physically, I underwent some checks while I was in Belgium and it turned out there was inflammation and fluid in the iliopsoas muscle, near the scar tissue.
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“It is the second problem I have had since I returned at the beginning of November. I chose to do the rehabilitation in Belgium so that I can be ready when called upon.”
“I think most of you saw the interview I did in Verona. I could never turn my back on Napoli, never.
“There is nothing I would want more than to play and make my team win, but right now I have to make sure I am clinically 100%, because lately I wasn’t and this also weighed on me mentally.”
Lukaku is expected to remain in Belgium for another two weeks while he works to regain his sharpness ahead of his return to Naples.
The striker admitted that his difficulties on the pitch has adversely impacted his psychological well-being and physical output.
“It has been a very intense year, but in the end I will make it and I will help Napoli and the national team reach their respective goals when I am called. That’s all I want,” he said.
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Napoli will hope the dispute will have a quick resolution and Lukaku can return to action as soon as possible.
The reigning Serie A champions remain in the running for the title despite sitting in third place – seven points adrift of leaders Inter.
Napoli have eight games remaining to close the gap starting with the visit of second-placed AC Milan after the internationals.
At the very least Antonio Conte’s side must ensure they secure Champions League qualification for next season with Lukaku’s inclusion likely to bolster their hopes.
