Rafael says sorry for red card

Manchester United full-back Rafael has apologised for his actions following his controversial red card at Tottenham.

The young Brazilian has admitted a misconduct charge brought against him by the Football Association but has requested a personal hearing to plead his case. However, the 20-year-old admits he was wrong to remonstrate with referee Mike Dean.

"I have accepted the charge because what I did was wrong," he said. "It happened because I was so frustrated at being sent off in such an important game. I apologise for my behaviour."

Rafael already knows he will miss United's Premier League encounter with Birmingham at Old Trafford on Saturday.

However, a disciplinary panel on Friday could add an additional game to his punishment and rule him out of next Tuesday's trip to Blackpool.

Alternatively, he could be fined or simply warned about his future conduct.

Rafael lost his cool when Dean decided his trip on Benoit Assou-Ekotto during the second half of Sunday's goalless draw was worthy of a second yellow card.