Spencer Leniu has apologised to Ezra Mam, whom he admits he targeted with a racial slur during the NRL’s opening round in Las Vegas.

Sydney Roosters recruit Leniu has pleaded guilty to contrary conduct ahead of his NRL judiciary hearing next week and is likely to receive a long suspension.

Leniu was placed on report in the 69th minute of the 20-10 win over Brisbane on Sunday (AEDT) after Indigenous five-eighth Mam told referee Adam Gee the prop had called him a “monkey”.

“I want to apologise to Ezra and his family for using the word I did and I am sincerely sorry to cause him such distress,” said Leniu.

“I’ve put my hand up and want to take ownership of this. I said the word but I didn’t mean it in a racist way. Anyone who knows me knows that’s not who I am.”