MANCHESTER, England (AFP) - Manchester United winger Nani has pleaded with his team-mates to forgive him for his needless red card against West Ham.

Nani was sent off in the first half at Old Trafford on Saturday after headbutting West Ham defender Lucas Neill.

The Portuguese player faces a three-match ban, ruling him out of United's crucial final Premier League game against Wigan, and could also be hit with a fine by United.

Nani claimed he was provoked by Neill but admitted he should have been able to control himself.

"I recognise that my action was a thoughtless one, but I also have to say that I was provoked and attacked. I know it serves as no excuse, but that's exactly what happened," he said.

"I regret having done what I did and I have to be thankful for the fact that my team-mates secured a win which was extremely important to us.

"I want to publicly ask for forgiveness, firstly of my team-mates, who were forced into a greater effort during more than 60 minutes, secondly of my manager and coaches, and thirdly of the United fans who have given me so much affection."

Nani also apologised for leaving Old Trafford in a rage before the end of Saturday's game.

"Believe me, it was difficult. At that moment I only wanted to disappear. That was what I did. I also ask forgiveness of the fans and the club for that," he added.

Meanwhile, Nani's United team-mate Ryan Giggs insists there is no chance of Wigan taking it easy on Sunday.

With the Latics safe from relegation and former United defender Steve Bruce in charge at the JJB Stadium it has been suggested that Sir Alex Ferguson's team may get an easy ride as they try to get the win which would clinch a 17th English title.

But Giggs is sure Wigan will be determined spoil United's day.

"It's going to be a tough game. Wigan have got some decent players. They showed that when they played Chelsea and got a draw," he said.

"But no matter what happens with Chelsea, it's still in our hands and we've got to be professional and do our job.

"It's in our hands, which is all you can ask for."