Gillespie sorry over brawl
Gillespie is expected to be hit with a heavy fine from the IFA
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Friday, 14, Sep 2007 09:30
Keith Gillespie has apologised for brawling with his Northern Ireland team-mate over a lost passport.
The Sheffield United ace fought with George McCartney on the flight home after Wednesday's defeat to Iceland in the Euro 2008 qualifier.
Gillespie clashed with the West Ham defender before Thursday's flight from Reykjavik, sparking an investigation by the Irish Football Association (IFA).
The 32-year-old, who scored a last minute own-goal to give Iceland a 2-1 win, threw about six punches at McCarthy moments after stepping on the flight to Heathrow airport.
Gillespie, who has been capped 78 times for his country, said he regretted the scrap and vowed it would never happen again.
"As I said before, I apologise to the management, staff and the fans because it is something that shouldn't have happened. Unfortunately it did," Gillespie said.
"Hopefully we can put this to bed and get on with playing football. George and I had words and there was a coming together but, you know, the whole incident was finished within two to three seconds.
"Players came in and pulled us apart. The incident has obviously been sensationalised somewhat by most of the press but certainly I don't have a problem with George.
"I've texted George and have told him no hard feelings."
The IFA has welcomed the apology but the president and chief executive will continue to investigate the incident.