Rodrigo: "It was an accident and I didn't want to hit or hurt Estupiñan"

Rodrigo Moreno was sent off in the 29th minute of Valencia CF's LaLiga game against CA Osasuna, in an incident that changed the entire complexion of the contest. The striker had tangled with Pervís Estupiñan and was shown a straight red card when the referee believed he had thrown an elbow at the defender, but explained his perspective on proceedings after the game.

"It was an accident. There was contact with him before we went down, and when I fell I landed on top of him -but I didn't want to hurt him or hit him," said the forward, who had scored the opening goal of the game before the incident.

"The interpretation of what happened wasn't correct in this case. I don't want to generate any controversy, nor say that the referee made a mistake on purpose. It's an interpretation; it would be irresponsible of me to hit an opposition player, and I can't say anything more than that."

"I fell on top of him and didn't even see him. I didn't protest because it doesn't serve any purpose, besides the referee noting down what I say to him and the situation becoming worse. I didn't talk to the referee because you can't talk to them, but I would like to clear up that it was an accident. "

Rodrigo will be unavailable for the game against Sevilla if his suspension is upheld, but is nevertheless looking ahead to Wednesday.

"We knew that this game would be difficult. We didn't start well and they put in a lot of crosses from the wings, but we scored. Down to ten men the game became more difficult, but we have another opportunity on Wednesday and I hope we can take the win."