Manchester United defender Chris Smalling says Barcelona star Leo Messi accepts the thump on his nose was an accident.

Smalling clattered the Barcelona forward during the Champions League quarter final first leg last week, although the centre back says he was unaware of catching Messi so heavily.

The England international says he caught up with Messi afterwards, and said the Argentine was in a forgiving mood over the challenge.

Smalling told BBC Radio Five Live: "We spoke after. I didn't realise at the time actually that I had caught him like that, but after the game we had a brief chat, shook hands and he said he knew it was an accident.

"Luis Suarez after as well, we had a good tussle and he just shook my hand after and we just said good luck.

"So it's nice when you can have that battle on the pitch and then obviously there's full respect after the game because ultimately you're just trying to do your best and enjoy the game."