Video: Argentina captain Javier Mascherano apologises for 'unjustifiable' kick at medic during World Cup qualifier

The Barcelona player appeared to be squirted by water

Javier Mascherano tries to return to the field of play after the incident (GETTY IMAGES)

Argentina captain Javier Mascherano saw red in more ways than one during his side's World Cup qualifier against Ecuador last night.

In a bizarre incident, the Barcelona spoiler appeared to kick out at the driver of a medical cart, apparently in response to the cart being driven too fast. There are also claims the player was squirted with water.

The 29-year-old was being carried from the pitch after picking up a knock in the 86th minute of the 1-1 draw in Ecuador.

Referee Enrique Caceres showed the former Liverpool player a red card, sparking angry scenes on the touchline.

Mascherano has since taken to Twitter to apologise.

"I really apologize for the reaction I had, nothing justifies this. Great team work and effort!!" he wrote.

"One preaches non-violence in our country, and in this I was mistaken. My reaction is not justified. I feel ashamed. The stretcher was going too fast and I was about to fall. I warned him (the driver) and he ignored me, but what I did was not justified. I’m big enough to admit mistakes. I’m embarrassed, and saddened."

Despite the draw, in which Manchester City striker Sergio Ageuro scored from the penalty spot, Argentina remain at the top of the standings in the South America qualifying group on 26 points, three ahead of second-placed Colombia.

Watch the incident below...