‘It has affected the result and I feel terrible... all I can do is apologise’: Spence on Fulham red

The defender clattered into Fulham’s Neeskens Kabano in the 54th minute, after nothing was given for a heavy challenge on Freddie Sears seconds earlier, with the reckless challenge punished with a red card.

Spence’s dismissal came at a time when the Blues were a goal up, thanks to Joe Garner’s brave header, but the 10 men he left behind were subsequently torn apart as the hosts scored four times in a seven-minute spell to claim the three points.

MORE: Spence’s ‘moment of madness has cost us’, says McCarthy

The sending off was the first of Spence’s professional career, with the defender apologising to team-mates, staff and fans for a challenge which will now see him suspended for three games.

Jordan Spence is sent off at Fulham Picture Pagepix (Image: Pagepix Ltd 07976 935738)

“It does look bad having watched it back but there was no intention to hurt anyone,” Spence said, via the club website.

“It is the first time I have been sent off and anyone who that has followed my career knows I’m not that type of player or person. I would never try and hurt a fellow player.

“I’ve gone at speed to close him down and have gone into him and once you do that, you are at the referee’s call.”

MORE: Player ratings: Spence lets his team down on a night of struggle - grades from Fulham

A disappointed Mick McCarthy leaves the pitch at Craven Cottage Picture Pagepix (Image: Pagepix Ltd 07976 935738)

“It has affected the result and I feel terrible about that. We were right in the game until that and all I can do is apologise to the players, the staff and the supporters.”

Spence’s ban is due to begin with Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Sheffield United, then the home Championship clash with on January 13. The third game will either be the league game with Bolton on January 20 or, should it be required, any FA Cup replay against the Blades which would likely be played on January 16.