Watford defender Miguel Britos has issued a public apology for his horror challenge on Albion winger Anthony Knockaert.

The Uruguayan was sent-off for a knee-high, jump tackle on Knockaert in the first half of Saturday's 0-0 draw at Vicarage Road.

Britos was widely condemned and, returning to training today, he told The Watford website: "I would like to publicly apologise for my red card on Saturday.

"It was not my intention to hurt the Brighton player, and I am happy he was okay and able to carry on playing the match.

"My timing was wrong but there are no excuses and I was very sad when I was in the dressing room.

"I know I let the coach, my team-mates, the fans and everyone down and for this I am very sorry."

  

Britos has been sent-off three times in 11 home games for Watford and will now serve a three-match ban.

The 32-year-old added: "I have seen the statistics about my red cards and I am not happy about this, this is not how I want my career to be talked about.

"I accept my punishment and I know it will be a few weeks before I can be available to play again, but I will be working hard in training so that, if selected, I am ready to help the team."