Federico Macheda moved to clarify comments he made about Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney.
Macheda used the term 'coatto' to describe the England striker in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport on Thursday while on Italy Under-21 duty. 'Coatto' has been interpreted in various ways with some of the British newspapers using 'chav' as the English equivalent while 'vulgar and violent' have also appeared.
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However, Macheda said there was no criticism intended of the former Everton man and he told Gazzetta: "I said 'coatto' in the Roman way, but with the minimum intention to offend Rooney."
"I like him and I have maximum respect for him.
"What I wanted to say is that for me he is a free spirit and genuine.
"I sent a message to Rio Ferdinand to clarify everything with Wayne and Rio told me not to worry, everything is fine."
Source: PA
