Disgraced Angola striker Manucho Goncalves apologised on Monday after he was left out of the national team for arriving late for training and incurring the wrath of coach Manuel Jose.

The coach of the 2010 African Nations Cup hosts blasted Manucho at a media conference here last week, saying the player he axed from the squad for upcoming friendlies against Congo and Ghana needed to learn respect.

Manucho, who plays for Spanish side Real Valladolid, issued a statement through Angolan state media saying he was sorry.

"My late arrival to training was because of a issue with an entry visa and it wasn’t my wish," the former Manchester United and Hull City striker said.

"I apologise to the 'teacher' and to my colleagues, in particular, and to the nation in general for all that has happened.

"I am very sad about this situation, that I am considered undisciplined by the Angolan people."

Angola host the biennial 16-team Nations Cup in four centres from January 10.

AFP

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