Reading forward Shane Long has apologised to his team-mates after his red card in Saturday's 2-2 FA Cup draw with West Brom.

The in-form Republic of Ireland international was dismissed in the 49th minute of the fifth round clash at the Madejski Stadium after a late challenge on Abdoulaye Meite.

Baggies substitute Youssouf Mulumbu soon followed Long for an early bath to even the numbers after collecting two soft yellow cards within 16 minutes of joining the fray.

Jimmy Kebe gave Reading the lead just 10 seconds in before Robert Koren responded. Simon Church restored the home side's advantage only for Joe Mattock to restore parity once again with time running out.

Long will miss the Hawthorns replay as he serves a four-match ban for his second dismissal of the season and was quick to make peace with his team-mates at the final whistle.

Long said: "I shouldn't have put in the challenge. I went back to the dressing room and watched the rest of the game on TV.

"I was jumping up and down when Churchie scored. I thought that was it. We were unlucky to concede that late goal.

"I said sorry to the lads afterwards. They don't blame anyone - they were more disappointed about not winning."