Germany defender Antonio Rudiger has apologised to Benjamin Pavard for a challenge which left the France defender with marks on his neck.

Rudiger caught World Cup winner Pavard, 22, with his studs during a sliding challenge in Thursday's Nations League goalless draw.

Chelsea's Rudiger tweeted on Friday to say his challenge was not intentional.

"I also want to use this opportunity to wish him a speedy recovery," added the 25-year-old former Roma defender.

Pavard, who plays his club football in Germany with Stuttgart, was able to continue after the third-minute incident and completed the full game.

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