Ex-Chelsea midfielder, Saul Niguez has sent an emotional message to fans, admitting that he feels terrible about himself at the moment.

The Spaniard spent six months at Stamford Bridge two seasons ago, after sealing a loan move from Atletico Madrid.

The loan deal included an option to buy, but Chelsea opted to send the 29-year-old back to his parent club at the end of that season due to subpar displays from him.

On Wednesday, Saul was involved in Atletico’s UEFA Champions League round-of-16 tie with Inter Milan, coming off the bench to eventually take part in a penalty shootout.

However, the midfielder missed from the spot, leading to heavy criticism from fans of Atletico, despite the club progressing at the expense of Inter.

After the game, Saul Niguez took to social media to tender an apology to the angry fans, and acknowledged he hasn’t been the top player he once was.

“Honestly, it is difficult for me to write right now, but just as I write in good times, I must do so in bad times,” he posted on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter).

“It’s a s****y moment for me on a sporting level, and I’m aware.

“I accept all the criticism and not only because of today’s penalty but because of how I am right now.

“I don’t know exactly what it is, but the only thing they have taught me is to keep working through thick and thin, until I manage to change the situation.

“Thank you for being there through thick and thin.”