Shanghai SIPG midfielder Oscar has denied disrespecting Guangzhou R&F after his actions sparked a brawl that saw two men sent off during the sides' Chinese Super League game on Sunday.
Oscar was angrily confronted by opponents after twice appearing to deliberately kick the ball at them. A melee broke out which saw Oscar fall to the ground and eventually led to a player from each side being dismissed.
"Disrespect the opponent? It is not true," the Brazil international is reported as telling the Sina news agency. "I am a very dedicated player and respect sportsmanship."
Oscar's manager Andre Villas-Boas backed him up and said he had acted in the interests of the team.
"Oscar is not a dirty player," he said. "I believe he was hoping to show some passion and fighting spirit. The match was very intense, and he wanted to help the team. But of course I believe this kind of conflict should be avoided."
The match ended in a 1-1 draw, a result that leaves Shanghai four points behind leaders Guangzhou Evergrande in the standings.
