“I have apologised to my team-mates because they are two big games against Liverpool and I will not be there to help out,” he said.

“I didn't think it was a bad foul. I have done everything I can to try and not get yellow cards but there you go again, I have got another one.

“It is difficult. You pay attention to where you are putting your feet, but if you put it in the wrong place then that is what happens.”

However, Neville has challenged Fellaini’s replacement to thrive on the chance to make an impact in two of the biggest games of the season.

As well as disrupting Liverpool’s ambitions in the league and the FA Cup, Everton will be looking to strengthen their chances of European qualification on both fronts.

And although David Moyes has very few options when he decides how to compensate for Fellaini’s absence, Neville feels the players can overcome yet more adversity.

“It will be a big loss for us but it’s up to Victor (Anichebe) and other players to step up to the mark,” said Neville.

“Dan Gosling, Jack Rodwell – you’ve got these players who have a great chance of playing in two massive games against our local rivals and I’m sure that is something they are looking forward to.

“We went to Manchester City and everyone wrote us off because we had no forwards – but since then we’ve gone on another run.

“We’ve got to go to Anfield now without Marouane Fellaini and show that spirit.”