Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards has issued a grovelling apology to fans after the Eagles’ heavy defeat to rivals Brighton.The Eagles were thumped 5-0 at the Amex Stadium on Sunday afternoon as they suffered their fourth loss of the season.Richards waited until Monday before making his first public comments about Palace’s humiliationGettyA catastrophic defensive display saw Palace concede three goals inside the opening ten minutes.Meanwhile, it is the first time Brighton have scored five in the fixture since 1956.The travelling Palace fans made their feelings known at full time as they booed their side off at the final whistle.Richards initially headed straight down the tunnel without acknowledging the supporters.The USA international would later return to the pitch, though, after being urged to do so by teammate Jorgen Strand Larsen.Richards apologyRichards has now apologised to the fans for his post-match antics in a social media post.In a message shared via his Instagram story, he wrote: “Palace fans, I’m truly sorry for yesterday’s performance.“You deserve so much better than what happened and there are no excuses.”As for the scenes at the final whistle, Richards added: “I also want to apologise for walking off after the game.“I was emotional and embarrassed with the result – I know how much this club means to all of you.Palace conceded five goals to Brighton for the first time since 1956Shutterstock Editorial“We have to take responsibility, do better and show that on the pitch.”Richards, who joined the club in 2022, stands to leave at the end of his current contract this summer.The 26-year-old has made 131 appearances for Palace, scoring five goals from centre-back.He has also won the FA Cup, Community Shield and Conference League during his time at Selhurst Park.Palace boss Pierre Sage was also jeered at full time as pressure grows on the Frenchman.Despite only being appointed on a three-year deal in the summer, talkSPORT understands he is already fighting to save his job.Palace have lost four of their seven Premier League games this seasonReutersThe Eagles sit just two points above the relegation zone in 14th ahead of next weekend’s home match against Newcastle United.Prior to that, they face Besiktas away in the Europa League on Thursday night.