Post by Liam O'Reilly on Aug 25, 2006 11:30:16 GMT
Manchester City defender Ben Thatcher has written an apology to Pedro Mendes for his ugly challenge on him.
Portsmouth's draw with City was marred by Thatcher's horrific lunge at Mendes early in the second half at Eastlands.
Mendes appeared to be caught by Thatcher's forearm as both players raced for the ball down near the touchline.
The Portuguese star was knocked out in the collision and was forced to be stretchered off.
Mendes suffered a seizure after the incident and spent Wednesday night in hospital.
The challenge infuriated Pompey boss Harry Redknapp and Mendes' team-mates.
The former Tottenham man was released from hospital on Thursday with the Football Association confirming they were looking into the incident.
Greater Manchester Police also revealed they were investigating the matter after receiving complaints from a number of supporters.
City and Thatcher have now moved to try and calm the row by issuing an apology to Mendes.
"Manchester City can confirm that Ben Thatcher has personally written a letter to Pedro Mendes to apologise to him following the tackle in the match last night," read a club statement.
"Chief executive Alistair Mackintosh has this morning telephoned Portsmouth's chief executive Peter Storrie to enquire about Pedro's health. The two clubs share an excellent relationship and everyone at Manchester City, especially Ben himself, wishes him the very best.
"The club does not condone such action and the matter has been dealt with internally by Stuart Pearce."
Thatcher added: "Immediately after the game I tried to find out how Pedro was. I have written to him today apologising for what happened."
Portsmouth's draw with City was marred by Thatcher's horrific lunge at Mendes early in the second half at Eastlands.
Mendes appeared to be caught by Thatcher's forearm as both players raced for the ball down near the touchline.
The Portuguese star was knocked out in the collision and was forced to be stretchered off.
Mendes suffered a seizure after the incident and spent Wednesday night in hospital.
The challenge infuriated Pompey boss Harry Redknapp and Mendes' team-mates.
The former Tottenham man was released from hospital on Thursday with the Football Association confirming they were looking into the incident.
Greater Manchester Police also revealed they were investigating the matter after receiving complaints from a number of supporters.
City and Thatcher have now moved to try and calm the row by issuing an apology to Mendes.
"Manchester City can confirm that Ben Thatcher has personally written a letter to Pedro Mendes to apologise to him following the tackle in the match last night," read a club statement.
"Chief executive Alistair Mackintosh has this morning telephoned Portsmouth's chief executive Peter Storrie to enquire about Pedro's health. The two clubs share an excellent relationship and everyone at Manchester City, especially Ben himself, wishes him the very best.
"The club does not condone such action and the matter has been dealt with internally by Stuart Pearce."
Thatcher added: "Immediately after the game I tried to find out how Pedro was. I have written to him today apologising for what happened."