Chelsea defender Jose Bosingwa has hit back at claims from Portugal manager Paulo Bento that he faked injury in order to miss an international match.
The 29-year old right-back allegedly feigned injury to miss a meeting between Portugal and Argentina in February with Bento revealing that it was to avoid coming up against Lionel Messi.
But Bosingwa has defended himself saying that Bento's comments are wrong and has called for an apology.
"On February 9, I was deemed unfit by the Portuguese Football Federation [FPF], as it can be confirmed by a statement which is still available on the FPF's own website," Bosingwa told Lusa.
"For the very same medical reasons, I was unable to represent Chelsea from that day until February 19, returning to action three days later.
"I have never feigned an injury, because that was not how I was raised as a professional and because it does not match the values that guide me.
"His insinuations are false and they question not only my integrity, but also my professionalism as a footballer.
"I hope the coach will retract his comments and show respect and professionalism, even towards the medical services which accompany him in the FPF."
