Ramiro Funes Mori: Everton defender apologises to Liverpool striker Divock Origi for reckless tackle

The Argentine centre-back has been critcised for both the tackle and his reaction to being sent off

Funes Mori appeared to gesture to Everton's supporters as he left the field (Getty)

Ramiro Funes Mori has apologised to Divock Origi for his late tackle on the Liverpool striker during Wednesday night’s Merseyside derby.

The Everton defender received a straight red card for his challenge on Origi, who left Anfield on crutches after Liverpool’s emphatic 4-0 win.

Funes Mori was widely criticised for both the tackle and his reaction to being sent off, as he appeared to grab the club crest on his shirt and gesture to Everton’s support while leaving the field.

“I very much regret what happened yesterday,” he wrote in a Twitter post on Thursday. “It was never my intention to harm a rival nor my colleagues leaving the field.

“And regarding Divock Origi, I fervently hope it’s nothing serious and know that was never my intention to hurt,” he added. “I ask my apologies for what happened.”

Origi was stretchered off with an ankle injury following the challenge and is yet to discover the full extent of the damage.

Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, confirmed in a post-match interview that the Belgium international had not suffered a break.

"I can't say too much, I didn't see the pictures until now but everyone I met said 'Oh, it was disgusting or awful', or however you want to say it,” he said.

“But it's not broken, it's a twisted ankle ligament, we have to wait now.”

Origi, who has recently established himself in Liverpool’s first team following an impressive run of form, arrived at the Spire Liverpool Hospital on Thursday to undergo further scans on the ankle.

Following his straight red card, Funes Mori will be miss Everton’s next three games, including the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United on Saturday.

Everton’s manager Roberto Martinez now faces a selection dilemma in defence, with Phil Jagielka and Seamus Coleman also doubts for the trip to Wembley.