Ribery Issues Public Apology for Pushing Linesman

Franck Ribery has issued an apology for pushing assistant referee Matteo Passeri after Fiorentina's 2-1 defeat to Lazio in Serie A on Sunday.

Ribery was caught on camera venting his anger after the final whistle, as he shoved match official Passeri on two occasions, before being ushered back to the dressing room by Fiorentina staff.

He is now facing the prospect of a lengthy ban, with the Italian Football Association set to review the incident in the coming weeks.

Ribery issued a public apology on Monday via his official Twitter account, which reads: “I’m really sorry for last night.

“I apologise to my team-mates, the coach and the fans. I also apologise to Mr Passeri because at the end of the match I was very agitated and sad, and I hope he can understand my mood.

“I always want to stay on the pitch and help my team-mates because I came all the way to Florence for this city and this club, and I think Fiorentina should get more attention, the same attention given to the other clubs, for the great work we’re doing every day.