Ruben Amorim apologises to Sporting fans for West Ham talks after Liverpool snub

Sporting CP's manager Ruben Amorim has expressed regret over holding discussions with West Ham United, calling his action "completely wrong", following his recent rejection for the managerial role at Liverpool.

Previously tipped to take over from Jurgen Klopp, Amorim found himself in London this week to negotiate with the Hammers regarding the potential replacement of David Moyes, whose contract is due to expire at the season's end.

Yet, the 39-year-old has now issued an apology to the Sporting faithful for his engagement with West Ham, acknowledging it as "a mistake", despite having notified his current club's hierarchy.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's clash with FC Porto, Amorim admitted: "It was a mistake. The timing was completely wrong. I'm always asking my players to be respectful... and I wasn't - even if I informed the club before. I'm so sorry and I apologise to fans, club and players.", reports the Liverpool Echo.

With Sporting close to clinching another league title under his guidance, Amorim appears likely to remain in Lisbon, especially since Liverpool have advanced in their search for Klopp's successor by agreeing terms with Feyenoord for Arne Slot on Friday.

Slot, a 45-year-old Dutchman who has been on the radar of Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur this year, has not hidden his ambition to manage at Anfield in the upcoming season.

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"The clubs have to do their job and then I am waiting, and as the 'main character' I have to respect that," Slot said earlier this week. "It will undoubtedly become clear in the coming days. It's no secret that I want to go to Liverpool."