Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley has apologised for his over-the-top tackle on Everton´s Steven Pienaar.

However, the 22-year-old former Manchester United player insists there was no malice in the tackle during Sunday´s 1-0 Barclays Premier League defeat at the Stadium of Light.

"I know it wasn´t the greatest of tackles and I am glad the lad is okay," said Bardsley. "He put his body in the way to protect the ball and I went for it and caught him."