Andreas Pereira says he ‘deeply regrets’ his ‘unprofessional conduct’ regarding an interview in Brazil, although claims the quotes attributed to him were not accurate.
The Fulham midfielder was quoted by Premier League Brasil as saying he was ‘looking forward to’ a proposed move to Marseille over the summer and ‘unfortunately it didn’t work out’.
The 28-year-old was left out of the Fulham squad for the Premier League clash with Tottenham on Sunday and he released a statement on the situation just before the match.
He wrote on Instagram: ‘I would like to address the article recently published about me.
‘Unfortunately, the piece contains statements attributed to me that I did not make, and the translation into English was done in a malicious and inaccurate manner, completely distorting my words.
‘In the interview, I clearly expressed my happiness and satisfaction with being at Fulham and my gratitude for everything the club and the staff have done for me, emphasising at all times that I still have two years remaining on my contract and that I am fully focused on the club.
‘However, the article includes comments that are neither accurate nor reflective of what I actually said.
‘I deeply regret the unprofessional conduct displayed in this situation and respectfully request a retraction of the quotes falsely attributed to me.
‘It is essential to uphold the truth and ensure that public discourse is based on facts.
‘Thank you for your understanding. And most importantly Come On Fulham.’
In Pereira’s absence Fulham drew 1-1 at Tottenham, with Brennan Johnson opening the scoring for Spurs before a Tom Cairney equaliser.
The results leaves Tottenham seventh and Fulham 10th in the Premier League table.