Barton sorry for tackle
13 Nov 2007 - 10:17:57
Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton has apologised to Dickson Etuhu for his controversial challenge on the Sunderland star during Saturday's Tyne-Wear derby at the Stadium of Light.
The Football Association have confirmed that the former Manchester City star will not be punished after referee Martin Atkinson decided to take no action over the studs-high tackle.
"There was no malice in it, nor was it premeditated," Barton said in a statement released to Sky Sports News.
"If I caused him any injury, then I apologise. Things happen in the heat of a derby game.
"It was my third game back and I'm still a bit rusty. If I was fully match fit the situation would have been avoided."
Earlier a spokesman said of the FA's decision to take no action against Barton: "The Football Association can only take action in the case of incidents that are not seen by officials.
"Whilst it is clear that the officials did not see the full extent of the incident, they did see players coming together and to take any further action would be tantamount to re-refereeing the game and this would be contrary to the laws of the game."