Newcastle United's coach Alan Pardew (centre) watches from the stand after being sent off during their English Premier League soccer match against Tottenham Hotspur at St James' Park in Newcastle, northern England August 18, 2012. — Reuters picLONDON, Aug 19 — Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew swiftly apologised for pushing a linesman in the back after contesting a decision in their opening 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League today.

Pardew was sent to the St James' Park stands shortly after striker Demba Ba gave the hosts a 54th minute lead and then he frantically tried to get a faulty walkie-talkie working so he could send messages back to the bench.

In the end, club officials had to do relay runs down the steps of the stand to pass on instructions to his assistants.

A fine or touchline ban could now follow from the Football Association but Pardew was full of regret.

“It was ridiculous really, I have to apologise publicly, I've been to see (the officials) already,” he told ESPN television.

“I've been telling my players this week to behave and have the Olympic spirit. I can only apologise. It was stupid. I don't know what I was thinking.” — Reuters