Jose Antonio Reyes has insisted that he did not insult Javier Aguirre when being substituted against Barcelona last weekend.
Atletico ace denies insulting coach
Jose Antonio Reyes has insisted that he did not insult Javier Aguirre when being substituted against Barcelona last weekend.
The Atletico Madrid forward showed his frustration when leaving the field at Camp Nou and was reported to have sworn at the Mexican coach on his way off.
As the media in Spain stirred into a frenzy over the outburst, Reyes has moved to deny all the allegations that there is rift between himself and Aguirre.
Controversy
"At no time did I insult the coach," the former Arsenal player told Marca.
"If there is any controversy then it has come from the media. I do not think my words were understood.
"Everything is solved with the coach.
"I have never had a problem with the coach, nor do I now, or with any member of the squad.
"It is the opposite in fact, we have a stronger bond than ever."
Reyes then revealed that he has sought his team-mates' opinions and they all agreed that it was fine to show some frustration when being replaced.
Annoyed
"When you are substituted you are always annoyed. If that is not the case you should not be in the team," he continued.
"Every player when they come off is angry, for whatever reason."
Fabiano Eller claimed after the game that Reyes' reaction showed a lack of respect to the players on the bench, but Reyes disagreed.
"Eller is exaggerating the truth," he explained. "I have talked to my team-mates and they all agreed with me and they said that they are annoyed when they come off too.
"Not long ago Maxi did the same thing and he said the same thing.
"It is a decision made by the coach and I do not think it is unfair. You have to accept the decision.
"The other day I did not appear happy, but when you are out there you sometimes forget that there are cameramen watching your every move."
