Roma issue Ronaldo apology

AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti says disparaging comments made about Cristiano Ronaldo by midfielder David Pizarro were inspired by the "bitter taste of defeat".

Chilean midfielder Pizarro accused Ronaldo of being "arrogant" and a "bighead". The Roma no.7 believes his opposite number at United used needless trickery.

Ronaldo insisted that he never disrespects opponents, while Spalletti was contrite when asked about his player's comments.

"Some of the things that were said after the game were perhaps said in the heat of the moment because we had the bitter taste of defeat in our mouths," he conceded at his press conference on Tuesday night.

"Our comments had the bitterness of defeat in them. We were disappointed after the game and sometimes in those situations you say things you normally would not. That is what happened here."

Spalletti admitted he is an admirer of Ronaldo's skill and said there is nothing questionable about the intent of his showmanship.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is an excellent player," he added. "He is a very exuberant player and a very fair player and has shown that many times."