Sassuolo’s Federico Di Francesco has rejected reports he racially abused Juventus counterpart Douglas Costa in the moments leading up to the Brazilian spitting in his face.

Costa was sent off in stoppage time of Juventus’ 2-1 win on Sunday and is expected to receive a heavy fine from his club and a lengthy ban from the Italian Football Federation.

However, midfielder Costa claimed in a social media post on Monday: “You do not know what he said to me.”

That has led to speculation that Di Francesco racially abused the 28-year-old – allegations he strongly refutes.

Quoted on Sassuolo’s official Twitter feed, Di Francesco said: “I am deeply troubled by the allegations and the inventions appeared in some national media. This is offensive and disparaging.

“I do not allow myself to be attributed to racist behaviours and/or phrases that do not belong to my ethical values ??and which are the fruit of others’ imaginations. I ask and I demand respect”

Sassuolo had just pulled a goal back through Khouma Babacar when Costa and Di Francesco squared up.

Costa already looked to have lost his composure after aiming an elbow and a headbutt moments earlier – but the worst was to come as he spat directly at Di Francesco from inches away.

Costa was sent off after the intervention of the video assistant referee.