Richarlison apologized for his savage tackle on Thiago

Richarlison has asked for forgiveness after tackling Thiago Alcantara in the Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool. A dangerous challenge resulted in the striker being sent off.

Despite the harshness of the pictures, which show the midfielder bending his knee after being tackled by the Brazilian, he was able to finish the game. However, club doctors will do tests to determine if he has any kind of injury.

Hours after the match, which ended in a 2-2 draw and a sea of controversy, Richarlison posted a statement on his website and social networks apologising for the action.

This is Richarlison's full statement:

"Everyone who knows my record knows that I was never a violent player.

What happened was a result of over dedication. I did not enter into that challenge with the intention of injuring Thiago. When I saw that I was going to hit him, I picked up my foot and hit him in the knee, something inevitable because of the speed of the play.

I sent him a message apologising and I am also doing it here publicly. I hope he doesn't have any injuries and everything is fine.

I also apologize to my teammates, my club and the fans for leaving them with one less until the end of the game. Unfortunately, there is nothing I can do to change what happened but reflect, work and move forward.

Richarlison".