Newcastle striker Cisse sorry for incident with Man United defender

Manchester United defender Jonny Evans and Newcastle United striker Papiss Cisse were involved in a controversial clash at St James Park this evening, when both players appeared to spit at each other.

The incident occurred just before the half time interval during the Premier League clash, with both players initially involved after Evans had tackled the Senegalese striker.

Cisse then appeared to kick out at the United defender, sparking a reaction which saw Evans spit in his direction.

The Newcastle goalscorer then spits back, with the referee getting involved soon after to award a free-kick to the home side.

Replays seemed to substantiate what had happened and Cisse has taken the time to apologise for the incident.

“I have apologies to make to a lot of people today. Firstly to my teammates and to our supporters, secondly to Jonny Evans, and thirdly to every football fan who saw the incident between myself and Jonny,” the Senegal international told Newcastle’s official website.

“I reacted to something I found very unpleasant. Sometimes it is hard not to react, particularly in the heat of the moment. I have always tried hard to be positive a role model, especially for our young fans, and yesterday I let you down.

“I hope children out there playing football for their clubs and schools this weekend will know better than to retaliate when they are angry. Perhaps when they see the problem it now causes me and my team they will be able to learn from my mistake, not copy it.”