Emmanuel Adebayor has apologised for his on-pitch clash with team-mate Nicklas Bendtner that left the Dane with a bloody nose.

The pair squared up seven minutes from time in Arsenal's 5-1 Carling Cup defeat to Tottenham, the Gunners' first defeat to their north London rivals since 1999.

Adebayor drew blood with what was thought to be a headbutt to the bridge of Bendtner's nose, and the pair had to be separated by William Gallas and Mathieu Flamini.

Both players face punishment, with the FA having requested footage of the incident and Arsenal also likely to take internal disciplinary action.

"Overall I think that we should have been more calm during the game and although I was pleased to get a goal back for the team when I came on, I am sorry for the disagreement with my team-mate Nicklas," said Adebayor.

"We are both passionate about this club and sometimes that can be projected in the wrong way. It was a mistake. We want to focus on the games ahead and rely on our squad's great togetherness to achieve a fantastic season."

Club captain Gallas said they will be required to explain their actions.

"They know they have made a mistake and they will have to explain why they did that," he said.

"I don't know exactly what happened. I think everyone was disappointed about the score. It was very difficult to accept.

"They are both young and nervous but they have to understand. We lost our calm."

Manager Arsene Wenger said he did not see the incident: "No, I haven't seen that - I don't know what you are talking about, I can't give any answer on that."

Alex Chick / Eurosport