Sergio Garcia denies racially abusing Barcelona's Samuel Umtiti

Espanyol forward Sergio Garcia has strenuously denied media reports claiming he racially abused Samuel Umtiti during Sunday's Barcelona derby.

Garcia and Umtiti clashed several times during the match, with the Spaniard producing a nasty tackle on his counterpart early on and also appearing to dive near him in the penalty area later in the game.

One of their altercations occurred just before full-time in the 1-1 draw at the RCDE Stadium and discussions continued in the tunnel.

It was reported that the two clashed and had to be separated by Gerard Pique, with Garcia alleged to have aimed a racial slur at the Frenchman, before later apologising.

But Garcia has spoken out on the matter, insisting…