Mike Williamson denies deliberate sending off accusations

Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson has rejected claims from manager John Carver that he got himself sent off on purpose against Leicester City on Saturday.

The Magpies defender was given his marching orders as they slipped to a 3-0 defeat to Leicester, and the centre-back was later accused of deliberately picking up the red by boss Carver.

However, Williamson released a statement on Sunday morning denying that the red card was planned, and he also apologised to his teammates and the club's supporters.

He said: "I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to Newcastle United supporters and my fellow teammates for getting sent off during yesterday's game.

"There was absolutely no intent to hurt Jamie [Vardy] or get sent off but I recognise that I should have been more composed in my determination to win the ball. Moving forward, I will do whatever I can to help my teammates prepare for the next two games and fight to get back into the team when I am available.

"I've had the honour to play for Newcastle for five years now and I can genuinely say I feel privileged to play for this club. I would never do anything to hurt the team or its supporters."

The defeat to the Foxes leaves Carver's side 15th in the Premier League table, only two points above safety.