Joey Barton apologises on Twitter after being sent off in defeat to Hull City

Queens Park Rangers' Joey Barton has apologised on his Twitter account for being sent off against Hull City in the Premier League.

Barton was red-carded in the first half for punching Tom Huddlestone. Hull then won the game in the 89th minute thanks to Dame N'Doye's winner.

I've apologised to the lads and would like to apologise to all QPR fans who travelled today.

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) February 21, 2015

On his official account, Barton said that he had already apologised to his team mates, adding that he "would like to apologise to all QPR fans who travelled today".

Barton also attempted to explain his reaction, saying he was protecting debutant Darnell Furlong, and stopping Hull's players attempting to influence the referee.

"Young kid making his debut has made a good tackle. Couple of Hull players trying to get him sent off. My job as captain is to protect him," he said.

"I've tried to prevent Hull's players influencing referee as you can see by me pushing Bruce away."

My actions towards Huddlestone were certainly not malicious, it was a stupid reaction to being barged but I can appreciate it wasn't right.

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) February 21, 2015

I'm gutted I got sent off. I've let my teammates down today and being someone who puts the team above everything else I'm gutted about that.

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) February 21, 2015

QPR are currently 17th in the Premier League, only above the relegation zone on goal difference.