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Anthony Gerrard, cousin of Liverpool and England legend Steven Gerrard, has apologised for inappropriate comments made to a fan on social media.

The Chesterfield defender, 33, told a fan he had picked up a hamstring injury whilst "rifling" his mother in a Twitter exchange last week.

Gerrard joined the club this summer and played in six straight games before missing their clash with Torquay last weekend, leading to a fan to ask: "What's your excuse this week, fat boy?"

The former Cardiff City and Walsall player responded: “Pulled my hammy last Saturday night while I was rifling your mother, hope that clears that up.”

(Image: PA)

The pair continued to take shots at each other via Twitter , with Gerrard adding: “You’ve got far too much to say for yourself fella, come to the ground on Tuesday and voice your opinion while your (sic) standing in front of me, rather than acting brave behind your phone, look forward to seeing you.”

The supporter responded: "Does 8am suit you?" with Gerrard coming back with: "Say 9, let me full English settle."

(Image: Anthony Gerrard/Twitter)

(Image: Anthony Gerrard/Twitter)

Chesterfield confirmed the matter was being investigated and released a statement on Tuesday announcing the incident had been dealt with internally.

A statement read: “Following comments made by Anthony Gerrard which appeared on social media over the weekend, the matter has been dealt with following an internal disciplinary procedure.”

Gerrard issued his own apology for the incident, saying: “I accept that I was wrong to respond to messages sent to me via social media.

(Image: Getty Images Europe)

"It was not my intention to bring the club into disrepute and I would like to apologise to anyone who was offended by my comments.

“I have the utmost respect for this club and the people associated with it and will do everything I can to help improve the club’s standing, both on the pitch and by representing Chesterfield FC in the community.”

Gerrard was sacked by Oldham last year and ordered to attend an anti-racism course after an inappropriate joke made on a players' WhatsApp group.

He was handed a lifeline by Carlisle but was released at the end of last season before signing with Chesterfield.