Boumsong apologises for mistakes

Newcastle defender Jean-Alain Boumsong has apologised to his team-mates after his two errors resulted in Manchester United winning 2-0 at St James’ Park.

The French centre-back, who cost the Magpies £8m (€11.7m) when he signed from Rangers in January, failed to control a bouncing ball and allowed Wayne Rooney to steal in ahead of him and score the Red Devils’ first.

He then missed a chance to intercept Rooney’s cross for Ruud van Nistelrooy, and the Dutch striker added his side’s second.

“We were well in the game, but unfortunately I committed two mistakes and I apologise for that,” the 25-year-old told his club’s official website www.nufc.co.uk.

“It was not the moment to commit them, especially for an experienced player like me. I feel very sorry and I hope the fans understand.

“It’s not the gaffer’s fault we’ve lost, it’s mine and I take that responsibility.”

Boumsong is confident the club’s fortunes will improve after the international break, after taking just one point from their first four games.

He added: “We need a break and a goal to lift us. Hopefully that will come soon in the next game.

“I hope people will give us time to build up this team. We have quality in the team and we can do well. I know it’s difficult to say it after four games and only one point for a big club like Newcastle, but we have to keep working hard.”