Chelsea skipper John Terry has confirmed reports Barcelona attacker Alexis Sanchez had been targeting his broken ribs prior to his dismissal at the Nou Camp. Despite issuing an apology to the Chelsea manager, players and fans for being sent off Terry has not spoken about the incident until now.

He told The Sun: "I had a tussle with Sanchez in the first leg and he went off for a few minutes early in the first half when he ran into me.

"His movement was good and he nearly got in a few times. But he went into my ribs a few times so he clearly knew about my injury.

"That said, it was my fault. I put my hands up after the game and offered everyone involved an apology. It's not in my character to do that and not in a game of that magnitude. I'm a fair player, I'm a strong player and I do like a tackle but that's not me.

"I was more disappointed that I gave the referee and the linesman the opportunity to put the team and club in that situation.

"Clearly the result helped me but if the lads had gone out I'm not sure I could explain how I'd have felt.

"I think I was probably fortunate in a way because I didn't have to deal with the consequences of that.

"Given how emotional I was when I missed that penalty in the final against Manchester United it's not something I want to think about.

"Obviously a couple of days after I had to deal with the heartbreak and disappointment personally but sometimes things are not supposed to happen and maybe I was never meant to play in this final.

"To be honest I feel far more sorry for the lads missing out over receiving yellow cards. I think it's a bit harsh to miss a final after collecting three cards in about 14 games.

"I feel far more compassion for those players than worrying about feeling sorry for myself.

"All I hope is if there is any justice and given the bad luck we have had in the Champions League over the years, that we go on to win it.

"That would be a fantastic achievement and one the players, supporters and owner deserve."