Arthur Masuaku apologises for spitting incident in FA Cup defeat

West Ham United winger Arthur Masuaku has apologised after being sent off for spitting at an opposition player in Saturday's FA Cup fourth-round loss at Wigan Athletic.

The 24-year-old was dismissed in the 49th minute of the 2-0 defeat at the DW Stadium following his reaction to a reckless tackle by Powell by the side of the pitch.

Masuaku's actions were widely condemned among fans and pundits, with Hammers manager David Moyes branding the incident as "despicable" and "unacceptable".

The Frenchman took to social media on Sunday to make a public apology for his behaviour in the lead-up to receiving the first red card of his professional career.

"I want to say sorry for my actions yesterday - I let down my teammates, the manager, coaches, board and the fans," Masuaku wrote on Twitter.

"I am very sad because the manager and coaches have put a lot of faith in me but I will work very hard to try and win that back.

"It was in the heat of the moment and out of character for me but I know it was totally unacceptable and I will learn from the first red of my career."

Spitting carries a mandatory six-game suspension, which would rule Masuaku out until the middle of March.