“It was wrong”: Rubén Amorim apologizes for the West Ham meeting and admits it was a “mistake”

Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim admitted it was a “mistake” to fly and speak to West Ham about joining them as coach.

Earlier this week, Amorim flew to London in very public talks with West Ham on success David Moyes as a manager.

However, after receiving criticism for his actions in his native Portugal, the 39-year-old apologized to fans.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Saturday ahead of Sporting's crucial clash against PortAmorim said: “So let's get the elephant out of the room and I'll talk about it once.

“The first thing is to say that the Club was aware of my trip. It is important and changes the context.

“Next, let's talk about the cloak of secrecy that surrounded the trip.

“I secretly parked the car outside, secretly walked past 15 people, passed people, took pictures and got on a plane to take some of this that was done behind the club's back, that didn't happen.

“Obviously my trip was a mistake, the timing was completely wrong, it didn't seem right at the time.

“It was wrong, especially when I am so demanding with my players and always the first to say that each one's problems do not disappear.

“They can dominate the team, I have already removed players from the squad for much less.

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“It was my mistake, I have to accept it and live with it.”

West Ham became the pioneers in landing Amorim, who had been linked with Liverpool as a potential Jurgen Klopp replacement.

However, the Reds have since reached an agreement with Arne Slot to become their new manager in the summer.

Meanwhile, Moyes has insisted that no decision has been made over his future despite his contract expiring at the end of the season.

talkSPORT understands that the Hammers boss will leave this summer, while sporting director Tim Steidten has been tasked with finding a replacement.