Albania defender Elseid Hysaj APOLOGISES after ducking out the way of Nicolo Barella's shot in Italy defeat and explains his reaction was a 'technical and instinctive error'

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Albania defender Elseid Hysaj has issued an apology for 'ducking' out the way of Nicolo Barella's wicked shot in his side's 2-1 defeat against Italy on Saturday.

The full-back was caught in a moment of uncertainty when the Italian midfielder smashed his effort goal-bound to give Luciano Spalletti's side the lead.

Albania had originally gone in-front by scoring the fastest goal in European Championship history when Nedim Bajrami found the back of the net after just 23 seconds.

However, the reigning Euro champions found their way back into proceedings courtesy of smart finished from Alessandro Bastoni and Barella.

The latter scored what would prove to be the winner, but replays showed Hysaj had ducked out the way of the shot when it was rifled at him before eventually nestling in the back of the net.

Albania defender Elseid Hysaj has issued an apology for 'ducking' out the way of Italy's second goal

Hysaj (middle) ducked out the way of Nicolo Barella's wicked shot that gave Italy the lead

Evidently feeling at fault for the goal, the Lazio star has issued a heartfelt apology on social media where he blamed himself what he described as a 'technical and instinctive error'.

'After the match with Italy and recent events, I feel I must apologise to all Albanian fans for the technical and instinctive error that caused the second goal we conceded. 

'It is excessive to specify that it was precisely a gameplay mistake and a wrong assessment of the trajectory! Those who know me well know that I would give every force I have and make every sacrifice for this jersey, as I have always done.

'I regret the unwarranted instrumentalisation by many people of the error beyond the technical assessment,' he added.

Hysaj posted his heartfelt apology to Albania supporters on his Instagram story

Hysaj explained that his decision to move out the way of the shot was a 'technical and instinctive error'

'On the other hand, I sincerely thank all the countless fans who have sent me comforting messages in various forms. I consciously accept the criticisms and regret of fans from all over, whom I hold dearly in my heart. 

'Now let's focus on the upcoming matches and always, Go Albania,' said Hysaj. 

The 30-year-old will be determined to make amends for his mistake when Albania face Croatia at the Volksparkstadion on Wednesday.

Defeat against Luka Modric & Co will all-but end Albania's chances of reaching the next round of the competition.