Thatcher accepts eight-game ban

Manchester City defender Ben Thatcher has signalled a determination to put the past behind him and get on with his career after accepting the Football Association's massive eight-match ban for his disgraceful assault on Pedro Mendes.

In once again offering his apologies to Mendes for the disgraceful clash, which left the Portsmouth star concussed and in hospital, Thatcher added he wanted to now put the unsavoury event behind him.

"Mr Thatcher deeply regrets the incident," said Thatcher's barrister Rupert Bowers. "He again expresses his apologies to all concerned; he now wishes to serve his suspension, put the incident behind him and continue with his career."

The FA sentence contains no financial penalty but the stigma of the incident may be difficult to shake off for a player who found himself in trouble six years ago when he elbowed Nicky Summerbee during a Wimbledon game against Portsmouth.

City have, however, emerged with their reputation intact, noting the FA's willingness to incorporate their punishment within the overall ban.

"We note the findings of the disciplinary committee and are pleased the FA have taken our own disciplinary action into account," said a club spokesman.

City will hope for better luck on Thursday when the FA look into their appeal into Ousmane Dabo's red card for catching Steve Sidwell with his elbow during Monday night's defeat by Reading at the Madejski Stadium.

If the Blues fail to overturn the red card shown by Howard Webb, Dabo will miss Sunday's trip to Blackburn, the following Wednesday's visit to Chesterfield and the Premiership encounter with West Ham on September 23.