World Cup 2014: Juan Zuniga ‘deeply regrets’ causing Neymar injury

Juan Zuniga has apologised to Neymar after the Colombia defender’s tackle on the Brazil star ruled him out of the remainder of the World Cup.

Zuniga caught Neymar in the closing stages of Brazil’s 2-1 quarter-final win over Colombia, forcing him to be carried off on a stretcher.

Neymar was then subsequently ruled out of the tournament after a scan revealed that he had broken a vertebra in his spine.

“I deeply regret the sad injury that Neymar suffered during the match between Brazil and Colombia,” said Zuniga.

“Although I feel that these situations are a normal part of the game, there was no intent to injure, malice nor negligence on my part.

“I want to reach out to Neymar, who I admire, respect and consider one of the best players in the world.

“I hope you recover quickly and return to the game soon, so we can all support a sport full of the virtues and qualities that I’ve tried to follow in my 12 years as a professional player.”