Charlton defender Harry Lennon has responded to his sending off during the defeat to Preston last night.

The 21-year-old, who has played 16 games for the Addicks this season, was shown a straight red card after an altercation with a Preston player in the penalty area.

Reports suggested the academy graduate hit out at an opponent from a Charlton corner.

Lennon said on social media: “I apologise for my actions last night.

“I let the team, manager and fans down. It won’t happen again and I will learn from it.”

MORE: We only have ourselves to blame for Preston loss, says midfielder

Lennon had featured in all of Charlton’s previous seven Championship games after being recalled from his loan spell at League One club Gillingham.

Jose Riga insisted he was not in a position to see the incident but suggested frustration may have got the better of his player.

“No I didn’t see it,” the 58-year-old told the BBC.

“I don’t want to say too much because I have to review it but it could be a very stupid thing when we are already in this situation.

“Frustration is not the way to solve the problem. But I repeat I didn’t see anything really and will have to have a look later.”

Johann Berg Gudmundsson cancelled out Preston’s opener at Deepdale, but Callum Robinson’s second-half striker ensured Charlton fell to another defeat.

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