Mueller apologises for horror kick on Ajax player

AMSTERDAM: Thomas Mueller has apologised for his kung fu-style kick to the head of Ajax defender Nicholas Tagliaico which saw the Germany star being sent off in Wednesday’s six-goal thriller in Amsterdam.

“No, no - of course I didn’t mean to do it,” the 29-year-old told reporters over the first straight red card of his career in 462 appearances for Bayern in the thrilling 3-3 draw.

Mueller said he went to the hosts’ changing room to apologise to Tagliafico after the match, but the defender, who scored the home side’s 95th-minute equaliser, had already left.

Instead, Mueller wrote “@ tagliafico3 - I am very sorry for that what happened yesterday! Was not intentionally (sic). Get well soon” on his Instagram account.

Mueller was sent off 15 minutes from time after trying to control the ball with his out-stretched boot, but succeeded only in kicking the head of Tagliafico, who needed treatment.

Both Mueller’s team-mates and coach said the foul warranted a straight red card.

“Thomas didn’t see him,” said Bayern boss Niko Kovac, “but it was a clear red -- he should have been aware of the opponent.”

Earlier in the fixture Ajax had Maximilian Woeber sent off for horror foul on Bayern midfielder Leon Goretzka, who witnessed Mueller’s tackle on Tagliafico at close quarters.