Everton midfielder Tim Cahill has apologised “wholeheartedly” for any offence caused by his goal celebration against Portsmouth on Sunday.
Cahill had dedicated the goal to his brother, who is currently serving a six-year prison sentence for causing grievous bodily harm, by pretending his wrists were in handcuffs.
It is the first time that Cahill had publicly acknowledged older brother Sean’s sentence.
The 28-year-old said in a statement: “I am aware of the significant media coverage following my unusual goal celebration on Sunday against Portsmouth.
“It was a spontaneous and emotional reaction but was only intended to signify to my brother that I was thinking of him and missing him.
“It was not intended to cause any offence to any other party and I wholeheartedly apologise if any offence was caused.”
