UEFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea winger Pedro Neto after he appeared to knock over a ball boy during the club’s humiliating Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

European football’s governing body confirmed on Thursday that the Portugal international is being investigated for alleged unsporting behaviour during Wednesday’s last-16 first-leg clash.

“Disciplinary proceedings have been instigated against… Pedro Neto for unsporting behaviour,” UEFA said in a statement.

“UEFA’s disciplinary bodies will take a decision on this case in due course.”

The incident occurred late in the game, which PSG won 5-2. With Chelsea trailing 4-2, Neto rushed to retrieve the ball from the touchline and knocked the ball boy to the ground in the process.

The moment briefly sparked tension between players from both sides before calm was restored.

Neto later attempted to make peace by apologising to the youngster and giving him his match shirt.

“We were losing and in the emotion of the game, I wanted to get the ball fast and I gave him a little push,” Neto told TNT Sports.

“I’m not like this. It was in the heat of the moment, and I want to apologise. I gave him my shirt. I’m really sorry about it, I feel I have to apologise to him.”

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior also apologised after the match.

“If there was anything from our side that was wrong or out of order, I apologise on behalf of the club,” he said.

Neto has scored 10 goals in 42 appearances for Chelsea this season.