MANCHESTER CITY have been dealt a significant blow in their disciplinary proceedings against Carlos Tevez after the Professional Footballers’ Association refused to ratify the four-week fine imposed on the Argentina international and backed the striker’s argument that he had not declined to play against Bayern Munich.

City wrote to the PFA for ratification of the record €1.2 million fine when they found Tevez guilty of five breaches of contract on Tuesday and have consulted the union throughout the process. A club requires clearance from the PFA to issue more than the statutory two-week fine.

However the PFA, whose chief executive, Gordon Taylor, attended City’s disciplinary hearing last week, has not only blocked half of the club’s proposed financial penalty but also rejected the manager Roberto Mancini’s claim that the 27-year-old refused to come on as a substitute in the Champions League defeat at Bayern.

The association’s stance is a serious setback to City, and Tevez’s representatives believe it vindicates their case that the striker refused only to warm up at the Allianz Arena. They are also confident the PFA’s decision will assist an appeal by Tevez should that need to be heard by the Premier League. That is an avenue open to the Argentinian if he fails in any initial appeal to the City board.

The players’ union said: “The PFA’s opinion, based on all the evidence presented, is that Carlos Tevez never refused to play for the club. This is accepted by the club in that the charge against Carlos made at the hearing was not one of refusing to play. As such, the PFA considers that there is no justification for a fine other than up to the prescribed sanction of two weeks’ wages agreed by the FA, the Premier League and PFA. The PFA has informed the Manchester City football club accordingly and Carlos will continue to be supported by the PFA in this regard.”

Tevez’s representatives are still exploring the possibility of suing Mancini for alleged defamation with his post-match claim in Germany that the 27-year-old had refused to play.

The PFA verdict supports Tevez’s case against the manager, although it is understood the Argentinian’s priority is the appeal against his fine and misconduct charge.

Tevez was almost certain to appeal anyway but, with another 12 days to announce his intentions, had been biding his time and considering all options for a while.

Now the support of reputable Taylor as an independent witness will help his cause. Tevez has two rights of appeal and the saga could run on into December.

Guardian Service