Manchester United defender Jonny Evans insists there was no malice in season ending tackle on Bolton Wanderers midfielder Stuart Holden

Jonny Evans,Manchester United(Getty Images)

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Manchester United defender Jonny Evans has insisted that his challenge on Stuart Holden, which left the Bolton Wanderers midfielder out for six months, was not a malicious one.

The Northern Ireland international caused Holden to need 26 stitches in a wound in his knee, but has since admitted that it was a poor challenge and apologised to the USA international.

“I just said to Holden I was sorry, and that I didn’t mean to go in and hurt him,” Evans told BBC Sport of his phone conversation with the midfielder following the incident.

The United defender also admitted that he had initially thought his challenge on the Bolton midfielder was fair, but changed his mind after watching a replay.

He added: “At the time I did think I’d gone in for a fair challenge and I’d won the ball.

“But looking back on it when I went straight off the pitch and into the changing rooms and saw the tackle again, I realised it wasn’t a good tackle from myself – and my concerns were immediately with Stuart.

“Bolton’s doctor was keeping me informed, and gave me a call on Monday.

“It was disappointing to hear the news, so I just rang him straight away to apologise.

“I think anyone appreciates a phone call if someone’s caused them an injury. Not many footballers like to be on the treatment table, it’s just unfortunate that someone else has caused an injury to you.”

Holden’s injury comes as a huge blow to Bolton, who currently lie in seventh place in the Premier League, with the 25-year-old definitely out for the remainder of this season and potentially the start of next term.