Stuart Pearce says that Ben Thatcher is disgusted with himself for his challenge on Pedro Mendes.
The Portsmouth midfielder was knocked unconscious during Wednesday night’s 0-0 at the City of Manchester Stadium, and after reviewing the incident the Manager has told mcfc.co.uk:
“I think it was a shocking challenge, to be quite honest, and I’m very disappointed in the player.”
Thatcher was shown the yellow card for the challenge but there has been speculation that the there may be further investigation. Pearce is calling for the matter to be dealt with within football.
“Once you open the floodgates for a police investigations on football pitches, you are setting a precedent. It has happened in the past, but for me it should be dealt within the laws of the game.
“Matters like that are out of my hands, but it’s down to me to guide the player on what I find acceptable and unacceptable. I spoke with him yesterday, and Ben is disgusted with himself. For me, that’s a step in the right direction. Thankfully there’s no long-term injury to Pedro, and the club, myself and Ben send him our best wishes and hope for a speedy recovery.”
