Caracciolo: I almost joined AC Milan

He told Tuttosport: “In the last few hours of the January transfer market I was going to join Milan, then it all crumbled. I was waiting to leave, but at the end of the day was forced to remain.

“Obviously I was disappointed. I wanted and expected a change of scenery. I shall stay a little bit longer and will always give my best for Palermo. It’s true I have a contract until 2010, but if I couldn’t leave in January, then I shall move on in June.

“The worst problem though is that the fans have had no faith in me for many months. They continually pick on me despite my efforts, professionalism and the infinite amount of time I have spent on the bench. I cannot express myself fully this way, as it is not easy to play when surrounded by such tension.

“Yet I will not give in. Palermo want to reach the Champions League and I must try to give my best so the club can achieve its objective. It would also be the best way to say goodbye.”