Portuguese Football Federation officials say they have no idea what triggered the Real Madrid defender’s anger.

The 33-year-old former Porto and Chelsea player, who has 75 caps, said in a statement he felt hurt at the way he had been treated but didn’t explain what happened.

Coach Paulo Bento is due to give a news conference in Nicosia on Thursday, a day before the match.

Portugal is joint top of Group H with Norway and Denmark with three rounds to play.