Newcastle United defender Mike Williamson has denied claims that he wanted to get sent off in his side's 3-0 loss to Leicester City.

The centre-back received a second yellow card for hacking down Foxes striker Jamie Vardy just after the ball had gone out of play.

Williamson's tackle occurred outside the field of play, prompting Magpies boss John Carver to suggest that he had intentions of receiving a red card for his actions.

But the 31-year old has dismissed those suggestions by releasing a statement explaining his actions.

"There was absolutely no intent to hurt Jamie or get sent-off, but I recognise that I should have been more composed and measured in my determination to win the ball," he said in a statement.

"I can genuinely say that I feel privileged to play for this football club. I would never do anything intentionally to hurt the team or its supporters."