WATCH: Sunderland player in fistfight outside nightclub

In the video, the Belgium international is seen punching a man who is on the pavement before onlookers step in to break up the fight.

“I regret that I became involved in a conflict that was not mine,” said Denayer via Sporza. “I was heading to my car when I heard a friend scream. I went back, and I saw a guy who was handing heavy blows to my friend.

“I saw that my friend was in danger and had to intervene. I reacted instinctively. My only goal was to protect my friend.”

De Preter added: “Jason explained to us what happened, and we see no reason to doubt his words. He has intervened to help a friend and to stop the violence. It was an instinctive form of protection in a clear emergency.

“Jason spent two days this weekend in Belgium because he had been given leave from his club. He decided to go out for a night with his best friends, but when he left the nightclub, it went wrong.

“Jason stepped calmly to his car, which is down the street, when he heard a sudden noise behind him. When he turned he saw his best friend had become involved in a skirmish. Jason called to stop but without effect. It is true that he has handed out a kick, but it was intended only defensive.

“As soon as his friend was saved, Jason walked to his car. That was meanwhile half demolished, but he is still able to drive off. He himself is very shocked by the incident.”

#Sunderland foot fight?@Jasondenayer pic.twitter.com/1FjpsFH1cN

— HonorableMutombo (@mon_honorable) 23 May 2017