Napoli have jumped to the defence of their Colombian defender Juan Zuniga.

The full-back has been the subject of fierce criticism after his collision with Neymar on Friday night left the Brazilian striker with a broken vertebra and out of the remainder of the World Cup.

However, the Italian club have insisted that there was no malice in the 28-year-old's actions.

"Napoli are sorry for the accident that occurred that will prevent Neymar from playing in the semi-final against Germany," read a statement from the Serie A side.

"At the same time, the club expresses its support for Zuniga, who has been subjected to fierce criticism and threats of all kinds, for a foul in play that was not malicious but unfortunate in its consequences."

Zuniga joined Napoli from Siena for a reported £5m fee back in 2009.

Written by
Liam Apicella