Birmingham City defender Martin Taylor doesn't believe his reputation within football has been harmed over his tackle on Arsenal striker Eduardo da Silva.

He said: "I've played for 10 years as a professional now, you get to know referees and they get to know you, and I don't think this should change how people feel about me.

"Everyone can hopefully see the tackle for what it was - nothing intentional."

Ironically, referee Mike Dean, who had sent Taylor off against the Gunners, was also in charge of Saturday's clash at Wigan.

Taylor said: "I didn't realise until I saw him out on the pitch that he was the referee, but he was really good.

"I can't remember exactly what his words were but he just shook my hand and said 'I hope it all goes all right'."