Italian Under-21 international Stefano Sturaro has publicly apologised following his straight red card against Sweden in the Azzurrini’s opening fixture of European Under 21 Championship.
The Juventus man was given his marching orders during Italy’s narrow 2-1 defeat after he slapped an opposition player in the face and he has since admitted that his actions were unacceptable.
“I have come here today to publicly ask for forgiveness for what I have done to my team-mates,” said Sturaro during a spontaneous press conference.
“What I did was unacceptable and perhaps I don’t deserve to wear the shirt.
“I am greatly responsible for the defeat yesterday and I will accept all of the criticisms because I know my importance to the squad and what I can give to it.”
He continued: “It was an out of character gesture.”
“But I am not searching for an excuse or an alibi.
“We have thrown away a great chance because we started the game well; we took the lead and also a had a one-man advantage.”
