Last Updated: Tue, 06 May 2008 09:15
Nani has said sorry for his red card during Manchester United's 4-1 win against West Ham but insists he was 'provoked' by Lucas Neill.
The Portuguese starlet, who has shone at Old Trafford this season after boss Sir Alex Ferguson brought him to England from Sporting Lisbon, was sent off for head-butting Hammers' full-back, Neill, following a skirmish between the pair during the first half of the game.
United were leading 3-1 at the time and went on to grab another goal through Michael Carrick in the second half to keep their Premier League title push on track. However Nani regretted his actions in the build up to his dismissal, although he did protest his innocence saying Neill played some part in the incident.
"I recognise my action was a thoughtless one," said Nani. "But I also have to say I was provoked and attacked.
"I regret what I did and want to publicly ask for forgiveness."