Sheffield Wednesday's Fernando Forestieri issues full apology
Tuesday 16 August 2016 14:15, UK
Sheffield Wednesday's Fernando Forestieri has issued a full apology for refusing to play against Norwich on Saturday.
The 26-year-old attacker did not travel with the squad to Carrow Road for the goalless draw in the Sky Bet Championship and had to be convinced to play against Aston Villa in the season opener, in which he scored the winner, the week prior.
Forestieri's actions were understood to be the result of interest from other Championship clubs including Derby County and Newcastle, and a pledge from the Wednesday chairman that none of their players are for sale this summer.
The Argentina-born former Italy Under-21 international initially apologised on Twitter, before issuing an extensive statement on Wednesday's website.
Forestieri's statement read: "Following the events of last weekend, I would now like to make my position 100% clear to hopefully allow a line to be drawn beneath this situation.
"I accept my actions were unprofessional and unacceptable and to that end, I apologised sincerely to my team-mates, the head coach and all the coaching staff first thing on Monday morning. I also apologised to our fantastic supporters, who have been so kind to me since I arrived at Sheffield Wednesday.
"I would now like to also apologise to our chairman. I was wrong and did not show him the respect he deserves. He has shown full support throughout the last few days, for which I offer my genuine gratitude. There have been misunderstandings but I am very pleased to say that this situation is now resolved.
"I can only repeat that never once did I even consider leaving Sheffield Wednesday, and I am sorry if anyone ever thought that was the case.
"If I could turn back the clock, I would - but I cannot. Sometimes in life you have to make mistakes so you can learn from them. All I can do is ask for forgiveness from everyone who has been so supportive towards myself and my family during my very happy time at Hillsborough so far.
"My heart is with Sheffield Wednesday and I now wish to put these events behind me, concentrate completely on my football and help this wonderful club move towards the success we all desire."
