As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Napoli rally around Zuniga over Neymar backlash

Napoli are rallying around Juan Zuniga after his World Cup flashpoint with Brazil hero Neymar.

Barcelona star Neymar was kneed in the back by Colombia's Zuniga during their quarter-final on Friday and suffered a fractured vertebra that has ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament.

Napoli issued a statement in support of their player, saying: "Napoli are sorry for the accident that occurred that will prevent Neymar from playing in the semi-final against Germany.

"For the Brazilian champion we send our best wishes for a speedy recovery.

"At the same time, the club expresses its support for Zuniga , who has been subjected to fierce criticism and threats of all kinds, for a foul in play that was not malicious but unfortunate in its consequences.

"We note with relief that, in addition to the referee and his assistants, FIFA's disciplinary committee stated that there were no bad intentions on Zuniga's part."

 For the big stories and the banter follow us on Twitter: @tribalfootball

Video of the day:

About the author

Tribal Football Staff

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free