St Albans City striker John Frendo has apologised and been handed a maximum fine by the club after missing their FA Cup defeat to Concord Rangers on Saturday.

Frendo's absence has not been confirmed but it is understood the prolific striker was in Spain for the El Clasico match between Real Madrid and Barcelona. 

Frendo released the following statement on the club's website: "I would like to apologise to all connected with St Albans City, especially our supporters, my team-mates and my managers Jimmy and Graham, for missing the game against Concord Rangers last weekend.

"I recognise that the FA Cup is important to a club at our level, I regret missing the match on Saturday, the extent of the reaction surprised me.

"The club has imposed a maximum fine upon me which I have accepted and I am now hoping to be able to make a positive contribution to our forthcoming League, Senior Cup and FA Trophy fixtures. I would like to add that I am enjoying my time at Clarence Park.

"St Albans City is a great football club with super supporters. I am looking forward to training this week and to pulling on the yellow and blue shirt again.

"Once again I would like to say sorry to everybody who has a passion for the club, I hope for your support going forward."