Sassuolo clinch Serie A return with five games to spare

Sassuolo returned to Serie A after a season away on Sunday as results elsewhere mathematically ensured promotion for the team managed by World Cup winner Fabio Grosso.

With five matches remaining in the season, Serie B leaders Sassuolo are 16 points ahead of third-placed Spezia, who were held to a 2-2 draw by Mantova on Sunday.

Sassuolo beat local rivals Modena 3-1 on Saturday to set up the possibility of promotion.

Grosso, who was key to Italy winning the World Cup in 2006 with a goal…