Middlesbrough captain Emanuel Pogatetz has apologised
for the tackle that left Manchester United midfielder Rodrigo
Possebon requiring hospital treatment on Tuesday
night.
Pogatetz was shown a red card in the Carling Cup tie at Old
Trafford as he clattered into the Brazilian youngster with a high
tackle that resulted in Possebon requiring lengthy treatment on the
pitch and Sir Alex Ferguson expressing his anger after the
final whistle.
Tests have confirmed that Possebon did not suffer a broken leg
but further tests are being carried out regarding possible ligament
damage.
Following the controversy generated by the incident, Pogatetz
has admitted referee Andre Mariner was right to send him off and
confirmed he will speak to the United youngster in order to offer
his apologies.
“Firstly, I have to say that I went for the tackle because I
thought I could win the ball,” Pogatetz told the club’s official
website.
“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 have
apologised for hurting him.
“I hope that he will make a quick recovery and that he will not
be out for long.”