Manchester United’s victory over Middlesbrough in the 3rd Round of the Carling Cup was overshadowed by the horrendous ‘challenge’ on United youngster, Rodrigo Possebon.

Following the clattering tackle, Pogatetz looked bewildered by the referee’s decision to show him a straight red card.

The Boro captain has claimed it was unintentional, despite catching our player just below the knee, and plans to ring up Rodrigo to apologise. However, this isn’t the first time.

When playing for Spartak Moscow, he broke the leg of his opponent and was handed a six month ban. However, following a trip to hospital to visit his victim, his ban was shortened to two months.

He has spoken out today, talking of his regret, no doubt hoping that he will receive just a three match ban.

“Firstly, I have to say that I went for the tackle because I thought I could win the ball,” said the thug. “I now accept, however, that I misjudged the challenge. Immediately after the incident, I did not think it was a red-card offence because I did win the ball. But now that I have had the chance to see the tackle on TV, I know the ref was right to send me off. I am going to speak to Rodrigo by telephone and I will apologise for hurting him. I hope that he will make a quick recovery and that he will not be out for long.”




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