Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke has spoken for the first time since his penalty blunder against Bournemouth.
The Belgian felt the wrath of manager Roy Hodgson and his supporters when he fluffed a last minute spot-kick after snatching the ball from regular taker Luka Milivojevic.
"I spoke with the manager first to let him know what really happened, because I just wanted to clarify things with the TV and all of the media talking," he said.
"Then I spoke with the guys and I told them I don't feel sorry for myself, but that I let the team down because we are obviously battling relegation and every point counts for us.
"I said I will keep working hard for them and for myself. I just wanted to take my responsibility [with the penalty]. I don't feel sorry for myself - it happened.
"There is no issue - it is football and it happens. We have to stick together no matter what. It is a tough time.
"As a striker you want to score, but I just work hard for the team and try to hold up the ball and play, and the goal will come.
"I don't ask a lot of questions of myself, I just accept it is a tough time and work hard and try to help the team. The goal will come."
Source: tribalfootball.com