Newcastle United midfielder Yohan Cabaye has apologised for his altercation with Everton's Tim Cahill after the final whistle of Sunday's 3-1 defeat at Goodison Park.

Cahill was sent off at full time by referee Andre Marriner for grabbing Cabaye by the throat. The Frenchman received a yellow card for his part in the incident.

"I would like to apologise for the cross words I exchanged with Tim Cahill which resulted in his red card and my booking on the final whistle," he said.

"It was unnecessary and, regrettably, the result of frustration and disappointment, all in the heat of the moment. It is out of character and for that I am sorry."

Defeat for Newcastle, coupled with wins for Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, saw Alan Pardew's side finish the season in fifth place.