Javier Mascherano has publicly apologised for the furious reaction to his sending-off in the Old Trafford defeat by Manchester United.The Liverpool midfielder, who has already served a mandatory one-match suspension for his red card at Old Trafford almost two weeks ago, admitted a Football Association charge of improper conduct levied for his angry refusal to leave the field.

Following a personal hearing before a disciplinary panel on Thursday, the 23-year-old Argentina international saw his ban extended by a further two games and was fined £15,000.

Liverpool are pondering an appeal against the severity of the punishment and have until midday to lodge it with the FA.

Mascherano himself was full of remorse for his behaviour, telling the Daily Mail: "I apologise to everyone. I made a mistake and I regret this mistake. It was my fault.

"I am not a dirty player, I do not make a habit of showing disrespect towards referees.

"I don't like this and I can only think the high intensity of the fixture, against Manchester United, affected my behaviour that day. It was out of character but I do not use that as an excuse."

The red card was a first in English football for Mascherano.

Having already been cautioned by Steve Bennett, he was shown a second yellow card in the 44th minute after running 20 metres to question the booking of striker Fernando Torres.

The midfielder added: "Looking back at that game, I was wrong to approach the referee. I approached him to talk to him but I understand this was not a good idea.

"I reacted badly to the red card because I could not believe what was happening to me.

"I must learn my lesson but move on from this and forget what has happened. I hope people know that I try to be fair and that I have no intention to be aggressive.

"Off the field, it has been a difficult time for me. My disciplinary record has been good until now but I have to show that again. I always try to respect decisions by the referee and this is important."

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