Reds appeal Mascherano ban
04 Apr 2008 - 16:57:33
Liverpool have confirmed that they will appeal against the two-game suspension handed down to midfielder Javier Mascherano for disputing his red card against Manchester United.
The Argentinian was ordered off shortly before half-time of the 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford, but had to be dragged away from referee Steve Bennett by his team-mates as he refused to go quietly.
However, Liverpool still feel that the ban dished out by the FA, on top of an automatic one-game suspension, was too severe.
A club spokesman confirmed: "We have put in the appeal and requested that the penalty not be set aside pending the outcome. Consequently Javier is suspended for Saturday's game at Arsenal."
Mascherano, who had earlier questioned his dismissal for dissent, has finally apologised for his conduct against the Red Devils.
He 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.
"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."