Liverpool Football Club News

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• Founded:1892
• Manager:Kenny Dalglish

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Mascherano finally apologises

04 Apr 2008 - 08:38:44

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Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has at last apologised for his actions in being sent off in the 3-0 defeat by Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Mascherano was red-carded just before half-time by referee Steve Bennett and remained on the pitch to remonstrate with the official, before being dragged away by several Reds team-mates.

That delay in leaving the pitch has resulted in the Argentinian being handed a two-match ban, on top of the automatic one-match suspension he served last weekend.

Mascherano told The Daily Mail: "I apologise to everyone. I made a mistake and I regret this mistake. It was my fault.

"I am not a dirty player and I do not make a habit of showing disrespect towards referees.

"I don't like this and I can only think the high intensity of the fixture, against Manchester United, affected my behaviour that day. It was out of character, but I do not use that as an excuse.

"Looking back at that game, I was wrong to approach the referee. I approached him to talk to him, but I understand this was not a good idea.

"I reacted badly to the red card because I could not believe what was happening to me.

"I must learn my lesson and move on from this and forget what has happened. I hope people know that I try to be fair and that I have no intention to be aggressive.

"My disciplinary record has been good until now, but now I have to show that again. I always try to respect decisions by the referee and this is important."