Leigh Griffiths issues apology over St Johnstone flare as Dundee striker insists 'regrettable' incident was accidental

Leigh Griffiths has issued an apology for launching a flare into the St Johnstone fans at Dens Park.

The Dundee striker spoke of the “regrettable” incident that occurred during his side’s Premier Sports Cup quarter final defeat.

Griffiths, on loan from Celtic, faces an SFA sweat with the Hampden beaks aware of the incident and the police have also launched an investigation.

The 31-year-old said: “It was regrettable that the pyrotechnic ended up back in the stand as my intention was just to remove it from the pitch.

“Having just lost a goal I was eager to get the match restarted as quickly as possible and I would like to apologise for any distress caused by this action.”

The Tayside club aded in their statement: “Dundee Football Club and Leigh Griffiths would like to address a regrettable incident which occurred during last night’s Premier Sports Cup tie with St. Johnstone at the Kilmac Stadium.

“Following the opening goal a smoke generator, amongst other items, was thrown onto the park by the visiting supporters. This pyrotechnic ended up back in the stand as Leigh kicked it to remove it from the field of play.”