The BBC’s late-night Inside Sport programme made the claim that the option of banning Zimbabwean athletes from competing in Britain is being discussed as part of a new strategy to put pressure on Robert Mugabe’s regime.
Club spokesman Paul Tyrrell said: “This is the worst type of scare story which shows a lack of editorial integrity from the programme makers and although we are pleased that the BBC have today been quickly distancing themselves from the claim regarding Benjani, it is important to make the position crystal clear regarding his ability to live and work in the UK.
“The player last month received a three and half year work permit from the Home Office to play for Manchester City. We have been assured work permits are non-negotiable.
“The programme makers and the BBC should apologise to the player immediately.”
