By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Alan Pardew has apologised for the second-half incident which saw him sent to the stands on Saturday against Tottenham.

Newcastle's boss was given his marching orders by referee Martin Atkinson, after pushing the linesman when debating the non-award of a throw-in.

Pardew headed straight to the officals' dressing room following the final whistle to say sorry in person, and then told nufcTV he deeply regretted his actions.

"I did an absolutely ridiculous thing and I apologise to our fans, because that is unacceptable," admitted the manager.

"I thought the ball was out and he was standing right in front of me, so I just gave him a little shove.

"Unfortunately that was enough for me to be sent to the stands.

"I've since apologised to him and given him a cuddle but I don't think that's going to save me.

"There's me, saying to my players all week 'make sure you're like an Olympian, be humble, do everything in the right manner' and I let myself down."

Saturday's game was a sell-out at the Sports Direct Arena. The only way to guarantee your seat for every home Premier League game this campaign is to buy a season ticket - click here