Madjid Bougherra apologises to referee
MADJID BOUGHERRA last night apologised to whistler Calum Murray and insisted he has no hard feelings towards the Old Firm referee.
The Rangers centre-half was sent off after a second yellow card in Wednesday’s Old Firm clash Scottish Cup at Parkhead.
The Algerian confronted Murray and even attempted to stop the official raising his card – but he insists he will be happy to shake the referee’s hand the next the pair meet.
“I really felt the second yellow was harsh because it came from a tackle which, in my view, was clean,” said Bougherra.
“I took the ball with me.
“I just wanted to explain to him that I felt the punishment was too harsh. It’s true that, seeing the images on TV, it looks like I am annoyed, but this is only the impression you have watching it.
“I am truly sorry if it appears I was too aggressive in my approach towards the referee.
“I have tremendous respect for Mr Murray. He’s a very good referee.
“I have spoken with him before and sometimes we even had a laugh together after games.”
