Espanyol coach Quique Sanchez Flores has apologised for heaping praise on Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

Flores' words have upset some Espanyol fans.

"I didn't intend to create any sort of negativity," he said. "If that has been the case, that I've caused disappointment for Espanyol fans, then I am really sorry because it was not what I intended.

"I am committed to Espanyol and I'm grateful for all the support I have received from fans -- our objective is to make them all happy. If they have to cry then it should be happy tears.

"I feel terrible at having generated this uncomfortable feeling among the fans. I'm really sorry.

"I've tried to represent Espanyol as best as I can and I hope our fans are proud of how we represent them. If I have hurt any of them, then I beg for their forgiveness."