Jose Bosingwa admits he regrets calling referee Tom Henning Ovrebo ‘a thief’ following Chelsea’s UEFA Champions league elimination at the hands of Barcelona.
The Portuguese full-back joined team-mate Didier Drogba is labelling Ovrebo as a ‘disgrace’ for his display in the Blues’ second-leg clash with Barca.
Guus Hiddink’s side had four penalty appeals turned down by the Norwegian official at Stamford Bridge before Andres Iniesta’s stoppage-time equaliser saw Barcelona progress to the final of Europe’s premier club competition on the away goals rule.
In a statement issued on behalf of the player to the Portuguese media, Bosingwa said: “We were all very disappointed and frustrated after the game, but I regret describing the referee as a thief. Having had some time to reflect I would like to withdraw those comments.”
Meanwhile Barca coach Pep Guardiola has praised captain John Terry for his behaviour after Wednesday night’s game.
Despite being Terry’s third semi-final exit in the competition the Blues and England skipper visited the Barcelona dressing room and shook hands with each member of their playing and coaching staff.
“I want to thank John Terry for coming into the dressing room and congratulating us,” said Guardiola. “He’s a true gentleman.”
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