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Fabregas apologises for lunge on Liverpool's Klavan

Mario Anzuoni / Reuters

Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has issued an apology for his studs-up challenge on Liverpool new boy Ragnar Klavan during the clubs' Californian friendly on Wednesday.

The Spaniard showed a distinct lack of control as his wild tackle saw him make an impression on the foot of the Estonian defender, who was lucky to escape without injury.

"It's a red card," Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp told reporters post-match. "He (Fabregas) came by us in the dressing room and said sorry. He came too late in the challenge, of course. Sometimes in life if you are too late you get a red card, especially in football."

New Blues boss Antonio Conte supported his inherited player, expressing sympathy for both Klavan and the 29-year-old Fabregas.

"I am sorry and the player is. I am sorry for him and the Liverpool player," said the Italian. "In this period, it is easy to go too late into a tackle. I know Fabregas is a good man and a good boy and he is not the type of player to have this situation. I am sorry for him and to the Liverpool player."

Chelsea won the International Champions Cup meeting 1-0 courtesy of an easily dispatched header by Gary Cahill on 10 minutes.

Related: Fabregas sees red as Chelsea beat Liverpool

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