Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has said he was scared after being forced off with ‘breathing issues’ during their Europa League quarterfinal tie against Sporting CP on Thursday.

The former Arsenal goalkeeper was forced off the pitch in tears shortly before halftime, clutching his chest as he walked off.

He was replaced by Mattia Perin after being treated by medical staff on the side of the pitch.

“I am fine; I was a little anxious,” he told Sky Sports Italia.

“I was scared; it had never happened to me before; I was struggling to breathe, and it really worried me.”

Juventus took a slim advantage from the game after a 1-0 home victory over the Portuguese side. The second leg will be played in Portugal next week.