The 19-year-old broke his leg after a challenge from the Belgian but the Roma man insists the injury was simply an accident
Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan says he wants to apologise personally to Federico Mattiello for his role in the horrific injury suffered by the Chievo man on Sunday.
The Belgian challenged the 19-year-old for a 50-50 ball during the first half of the 0-0 draw in Verona, but Mattiello's knee twisted horribly when his foot became lodged under Nainggolan's leg.
Mattiello was stretchered off with his right leg in a brace, with medical staff fearing a double fracture of the tibia and fibia.
Nainggolan insists his tackle, while robust, was an honest attempt to win the ball, but says he intends to check on the youngster's progress.
"At the point of the challenge I actually wanted a free kick in my favour, but when I looked at the Chievo bench I realised there was an injury," he told Sky Sport Italia.
"I saw the footage after the game. My challenge was as strong as his but his leg got stuck between mine when he fell. It’s a real shame, especially as he's so young. I wish him the very best.
"I asked Chievo to give me his number so I can call him later."
Roma coach Rudi Garcia was left incensed at his side's "terrible" performance as they were held to yet another Serie A draw.
And Nainggolan admits it is vital that "the real Roma" stand up to be counted as they bid to cling on to the coat tails of Juventus while fending off Napoli in the table.
"We didn't do enough to win," he said. "It was a bad performance. It was partly due to Chievo's defending, but it was a very negative game from Roma.
"We study our opponents a lot but everything becomes more difficult if we don't pass the ball properly.
"We must roll our sleeves up and find the real Roma. We have to work on the small things and concentrate on improving them."
