Pedro Neto has apologised for pushing a ball boy during UEFA Champions League action after Chelsea FC suffered a 5–2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

The incident occurred late in the first leg of the Round of 16 clash at the Parc des Princes, when the ball went out of play and Neto attempted to retrieve it quickly as Chelsea chased the game.

Video footage showed the Portuguese winger making contact with the ball boy, causing the youngster to fall toward the advertising boards. The moment drew criticism from PSG players and spectators.

Speaking after the match to TNT Sports, Neto admitted he had acted in the heat of the moment and expressed regret over the incident.

“I want to come forward and address the incident that occurred on the pitch; I wish to apologise to the ball boy,” Neto said. “The emotions of the game, with us trailing, made me eager to retrieve the ball, and I gave him a slight push.”

He added that he immediately realised the boy was hurt and apologised on the spot, stressing that the behaviour did not reflect his character.

To make amends, Neto said he handed the youngster his match jersey after the game. According to the player, the ball boy also repeatedly apologised during their exchange.

“I also gave him my shirt. He was pleased to receive it and apologised many times,” Neto said.

The match ended with PSG taking a commanding advantage in the tie after the high-scoring first leg in Paris.