Cardiff City's Joe Bennett apologises for tackle on Man City winger Leroy Sane

Cardiff City defender Joe Bennett has apologised for the tackle which forced Manchester City winger Leroy Sane into an early withdrawal from the FA Cup tie between the two clubs.

During the first half at the Cardiff City Stadium, Sane raced clear of the home side's defence and appeared to be ready to get a shot on goal before being cynically fouled by Bennett.

The left-back's studs made strong contact with the German international's ankle and after the game, manager Pep Guardiola suggested that the attacker would face a number of weeks on the sidelines.

Bennett has acknowledged the severity of the challenge, but insists that he had not intended to make such a robust tackle on the edge of the penalty area.

1. Just want to apologise to Leroy Sané for my tackle today. I tried to stop the counter attack and completely mistimed my attempt.

— Joe Bennett (@JoeBennett27) 28 January 2018

2. I didn't mean to catch him like I did. I hope it's nothing serious and he recovers quickly.

— Joe Bennett (@JoeBennett27) 28 January 2018

Man City would eventually run out 2-0 winners in South Wales.